Abstract

GONZALEZ, Jeanette; ROSALES, Carmen; HERNANDEZ, Marianella  and  ICHAZO, Miren. Study of the behavior of poly(vinyl chloride) and functionalized polyethylene blends. Rev. Téc. Ing. Univ. Zulia [online]. 2007, vol.30, n.Especial, pp.437-444. ISSN 0254-0770.

In this research, blends of commercial poly(vinyl chloride) with linear low density polyethylenes (LLDPE) and high density polyethylenes (HDPE) pure and functionalized were evaluated. Different proportions of initiator (dicumyl peroxide-DCP) and 10 phr of a functionalizing agent (diethyl maleate-DEM) were used in order to accomplish the functionalization of polyethylenes. The compounds were prepared in a twin screw extruder with a PVC/PE blend ratio of 65/35. The functionalization degree was determined by infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Blends were characterized by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and by mechanical testing (tensile and impact strength); the morphology of the blends was also determined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Results obtained indicate that the functionalization of polyethylenes improves the processability of their blends with PVC. For the blends of PVC with lower K value and grafted LLDPE with lower molecular weigth, not variation on the impact strength was obtained; samples more translucent were observed, as well as a reduction in the size of the structures in the disperse phase seen on the micrographs. This result seems to be closely related to the viscosity ratio of the components of these blends. Concerning tensile properties a reduction in Young’s modulus, tensile strength and elongation at break was found for all blends studied.

Keywords : Functionalization; poly (vinyl chloride); polyethylenes; blends.