Mechanical properties of uncrosslinked and crosslinked linear low-density polyethylene/wax blends

The mechanical properties of uncrosslinked and crosslinked linear low-densi ty polyethylene (LLDPE)/wax blends were investigated, using differential sc anning calorimetry (DSC), tensile testing, and melt flow indexing. A decrea se in the degree of crystallinity, as determined from the DSC melting entha lpies, was observed with an increase in the dicumyl peroxide (DCP) concentr ation. The Young's modulus increased with increased wax portions, and there was a higher increase for crosslinked blends. The yield stress generally d ecreased with increased peroxide content. Crosslinking caused an increase i n elongation at yield, but increased wax content caused a decrease in elong ation at yield. The stress at break generally increased with increasing per oxide content, but it decreased with increased wax content. The elongation at break decreased with an increase in the DCP concentration, Melt flow rat e measurements indicated a mutual miscibility in LLDPE/wax blends. (C) 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.