Novel structures by microlayer coextrusion—talc‐filled PP, PC/SAN, and HDPE/LLDPE

Abstract

Abstract Numerous examples in the literature illustrate how the coextrusion of film with three or more polymeric layers is economically used to achieve a desirable mix of end‐use characteristics. More recently, layer‐multiplying devices permit two polymers of widely dissimilar solid‐state properties to be combined into unique microlayer and nanolayer structures with hundreds or thousands of alternating layers. If the layers are thin enough, the key properties of the constituents can combine synergistically. The microlayer structure is also an effective research tool. Because the microlayer and nanolayer structures contain large specific interfacial areas, they are ideal for fundamental studies of phenomena such as interdiffusion and adhesion. Three examples of microlayered materials with up to 1024 layers illustrate the versatility of this coextrusion process: talc‐filled PP, PC/SAN, and HDPE/LLDPE.