Role of interface modification in filled and flame-retarded polymer systems

New reactive surfactants (RS) and synergistic reactive surfactants (SRS), c ontaining reactive groups and longer unsaturated apolar hydrocarbon chains have been synthesised and applied in filled and flame-retarded polymer syst ems, respectively. These additives are capable of reactions with the polyme r matrix and the disperse phase as well. The reaction of these compounds wi th polyolefins was proven on model system by surface analysis, while their reaction with fillers was demonstrated by DSC. The interface modification i n filled/reinforced polymer systems and polymer blends resulted in improved mechanical properties. while in pigmented PE it contributed to higher phot ostability. Furthermore, the efficiency of intumescent flame retardant addi tives in polyolefins could be enhanced. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.