Influence of electron beam irradiation on the microrheology of incompatible polymer blends: Thread break‐up and coalescence

Abstract

The microrheology of polymer blends as influenced by crosslinks induced in the dispersed phase via electron beam irradiation, is systematically investigated for the model system polystyrene/low density polyethylene (PS/LDPE). Both break-up of threads and coalescence of particles are delayed to a large extent, but are not inhibited completely and occur faster than would be expected for a nonirradiated material with a comparable viscosity. Small amplitude, dynamic rheological measurements indicated that in the irradiated materials a yield stress could exist. In contrast, direct microrheological measurements showed that this yield stress, which would prevent both break-up and coalescence, could not be realized by EB irradiation. Apparently, the direct study of the microrheology of a blend system is important for the prediction of the development of its morphology and it is not possible to rely only on rheological data obtained via other methods.