Effect of electron-beam irradiation on poly(vinyl chloride)/epoxidized natural rubber blend: dynamic mechanical analysis

The irradiation-induced crosslinking in 50/50 poly(vinyl chloride)/epoxidiz ed natural rubber (PVC/ENR) blend was investigated by means of dynamic mech anical analysis. The influence of trimethylolpropane triacrylate on the irr adiation-induced crosslinking of PVC/ENR blends was also studied. The enhan cement in storage modulus and T-g with irradiation dose indicated the forma tion of irradiation-induced crosslinks. This is further supported by the de crease in tan delta (max) and loss modulus peak. The compatibility of the b lend was found to be improved upon irradiation. The Fox model was used to p rovide a further insight into the irradiation-induced compatibility in the blend. Scanning electron microscopy studies on the cryofracture surface mor phology of the blends as well as the homopolymer have been undertaken in or der to gain more evidence on the irradiation-induced crosslinking. (C) 2001 Society of Chemical Industry.