Compatibilization of polypropylene/high‐density polyethylene blends using poly(propylene‐co‐ethylene)

Abstract

Ternary blends of polypropylene (PP), high-density polyethylene (HDPE), and a random copolymer with 85% propylene and 15% ethylene (trade name Vistamaxx 6202, abbreviated here as VM) have been investigated to elucidate the efficiency of this additive in the management of recycling streams. Differential scanning calorimetry showed that VM will induce simultaneous crystallization of PP and HDPE. Polarized Optical Microscopy revealed a breakdown in the spherulitic structure already at 10% of additive (for blends with ratio PP: HDPE = 1:1), respectively 17%, (for PP/HDPE = 7:3). A similar threshold was found in the impact strength, and stress-strain-curves. This means that VM is also advantageous for recycling of PP: HDPE blends, especially those with high PP content.

Effect of Sugarcane Bagasse, Softwood, and Cellulose on the Mechanical, Thermal, and Morphological Properties of PP/PE Blend

“…The DSC data summarized in Table 5 indicate that the introduction of untreated fiber and cellulose does not significantly change the melting and crystallization behavior of both PE and PP. Darweesh et al [7] also reported minimal changes with variations in the blend compositions in their studies. The slight change to lower temperatures for the melting temperature of PP was correlated to a change in crystal structure.…”

“…Polymer blending is a convenient method for formulating novel polymeric materials that possess superior properties compared to individual polymers. Polypropylene (PP) and polyethylene (PE) are among the mostly used thermoplastics due to their excellent characteristics, including processability, high strength, recyclability, and low costs [6][7][8][9]. These thermoplastic polymers find various applications in industries such as including automotive, medical, packaging, construction, and building, among others.…”

“…Cellulosic fillers also have a strong tendency to agglomerate [4]. Many studies have attempted to improve the mechanical properties of PP/PE blends by incorporating various compatibilizers, such as maleic anhydride, and grafted polymers, among others [7]. Gao et al [14] conducted a study on the mechanical and rheological properties of wood/thermoplastics composites made from PP/PE blends grafted with maleic anhydride.…”

Abundance and type of microplastics along an urban density gradient in the Allander Water and River Kelvin, Greater Glasgow, Scotland

“…Polypropylene is a polymer with relatively low density, and its excellent chemical corrosion resistance, heat resistance, and insulating properties have led to its widespread use in various industries, including packaging, medical, and textile sectors (Darweesh et al, 2023). Sampling site 1 is situated at a considerable distance from the city centre of Glasgow and is located near a country park and golf course, characterized by a rocky terrain in its surrounding environment.…”

Tuning the mechanical and thermomechanical properties through the combined effect of crosslinking and annealing in poly(lactic acid)/acrylonitrile‐EPDM‐styrene blends

“…Polymer blends are now heavily investigated to produce new and innovative materials for the polymer industry. 1,2 The growing demand for polymer blends can be explained by the high costs involved in developing a polymer synthesis in polymerization reactors compared to the low costs of the blending process. 3,4 Therefore, polymer blends are an alternative for improving the performance of plastics available on the market.…”