Modification of PVC/ENR blends by electron beam irradiation

The effects of electron irradiation, with doses ranging from 20 to 100 kGy on the physical properties of poly(vinyl chloride)/epoxidised natural rubbe r blends (PVC/ENR50 blends) were investigated. The enhancement in tensile s trength, elongation at: break, hardness, and aging properties of the blends have confirmed the positive effect of irradiation on the blends. Crosslink ing of the ENR50 phase proved to play a major role in the improvement of me chanical properties of blends. The results also revealed that at any blend composition the enhancement in properties depends on the irradiation dose w hich controls the degree of radiation-induced crosslinking. The single glas s transition temperature obtained confirms that the blends remain miscible upon irradiation.