Molecular and Morphological Characterization of Immiscible SAN/EPDM Blends Filled by Nano Filler

Abstract

The compatibilizing effect of nano sized calcium carbonate filler on immiscible blends of styrene-co-acrylonitrile/ethylene propylene diene (SAN/EPDM) was examined. The surface energy of the calcium carbonate was modified by stearic acid. The compatibility of SAN/EPDM blends was studied by following the glass transition temperature Tg by DSC. SEM was used to observe the blend morphology and the X-ray analyzer was used to detect the calcium from filler in samples. Mechanical properties of the blends were determined, and related to changes of polymer-filler interactions and morphology. The results suggest that the morphology of the SAN/EPDM blends studied was affected by the reduction of surface energy of the filler. SEM micrograph of an SAN/EPDM blend with 5% of maximally treated filler.