Journal of Polymer Science Part B: Polymer Physics, Vol.42, No.13, 2545-2557, 2004
Temperature-dependent polymer-polymer interactions in polystyrene-polyethylene blends
The effect of the temperature on the interaction between the components an immiscible polystyrene-polyethylene blend has been analyzed with different techniques. Lap-shear-strength data and morphological observations indicate an enhanced interaction between the polymeric phases at elevated temperatures, at which dispersive forces are known to predominate. This raises the degree of compatibility of the polymeric components. Rheological measurements also justify the concept of increased adhesion between the components of the blend when it is processed at very high temperatures. Differential scanning calorimetry analysis lends support to an improved homogeneity of the blend at an elevated temperature; this is again consistent with an improved interaction between the blend phases. (C) 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Keywords:acid-base forces;dispersion forces;immiscible blends;interactions;interfacial adhesion;morphology;rheology;compatibility