Compatibilization of PBT-PPE blends using low molecular weight epoxy

Compatibilization of blends of an immiscible polymeric system consisting of poly(butylene terephthalate) (PBT) and poly(phenylene ether) (PPE) by a se t of low molecular weight epoxy, varying in chain flexibility and functiona lity, was studied in terms of morphology and mechanical properties. Evidenc es, such as reduction of epoxide peak in FT-IR spectra and viscosity and gl ass transition temperatures higher than PBT of melt-blended materials of PB T-epoxy indicated formation of PBT-epoxy copolymers, which in turn compatib ilized and stabilized the morphology in PPE-PBT-epoxy blends. Significant i mprovements in tensile and impact strengths resulted. (C) 2001 Elsevier Sci ence Ltd. All rights reserved.