Preparation and characterization of blends of high density polyethylene and poly(ethylene‐<i>co</i>‐1‐octene) elastomer

Abstract

Abstract Mechanical, thermal, and morphological properties of blends of high density polyethylene and poly(ethylene‐ co ‐1‐octene) (PEO) were evaluated. The blends were prepared in a single screw extruder at 230°C and 50 rpm with volume fraction of elastomer varying in the range from 0.05 to 0.8. Factors such as chemical similarity and melt viscosity favor the interdiffusion process of phases, resulting in better interfacial adhesion. A synergistic effect on the strength at break and elongation at break for a particular range of blend composition was observed. Blends with a volume fraction of PEO higher than 5% presented a super tough behavior at room temperature. Thermal analysis showed that there is a certain degree of interaction between high density polyethylene and PEO. © 2001 John Wiley &amp; Sons, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 81: 1991–1995, 2001