Excellent compatibilization effect of (ENR/PP-g-MA) as a dual reactive compatibilizer on the immiscible thermoplastic elastomer based on nitrile rubber and polypropylene blends: Insights from experimental and computational studies

Abstract

This study aimed to enhance the interfacial interaction within NBR/PP blends through physical compatibilization . Epoxidized natural rubber (ENR) and maleic anhydride-grafted polypropylene (PP-g-MA) were used as a dual reactive compatibilizer (CA). The TPE formulations were prepared through melt blending , utilizing a Brabender Plasti-Corder. The effects of CA on the technical properties of TPEs based on NBR/PP systems were examined. FTIR analysis indicated ENR reacted with PP-g-MA during blending, forming an ENR-grafted PP copolymer . Brabender plastograms revealed enhanced interfacial adhesion between NBR, and PP phases with increasing CA content, as evidenced by elevated torque values and reduced melt flow index (MFI). Consequently, tensile strength and Young's modulus exhibited enhancement, whereas elongation at break experienced a reduction. AFM analysis confirmed the formation of a more homogeneous phase structure in CA-containing blends compared to the control blend. Molecular dynamics simulations (MDs) revealed that the binding energy and electrostatic interactions confirmed the significant role of the CA in enhancing the compatibility of NBR/PP blends. The simulations highlighted that varying the content of CA and epoxidation level of ENR directly influenced the effectiveness of the compatibilizer, leading to improved interfacial adhesion between NBR and PP polymer phases , and overall blend properties.