POLYETHYLENE BLENDS WITH A PHENOXY

Melt blends of a phenoxy with two types of high-density polyethylenes (PE) having different melt viscosities were prepared over a full range of compositions using a Brabender Plasticorder. Morphological, therma l, and mechanical properties of the blends were studied. SEM (scanning electron microscopy) micrographs showed a two-phase morphology of the blends. T-m (crystalline melting temperature) of PE decreased by 3 de grees-6 degrees C, whereas T-g(glass transition temperature) of phenox y increased up to 11 degrees C. The decrease and increase of T-m and T -g were most pronounced when the viscosities of the components were si milar. Mechanical properties of the blends generally showed negative d eviation from the additivity rule, due to the large phase separation a nd poor interfacial adhesion.