The Effect of Multiple Compatibilizers on the Impact Properties of Polypropylene/Polystyrene (PP/PS) Blend

Abstract

Effects of compatibilizers on impact properties of polypropylene/ polystyrene (PP/PS) blends were studied and carried out through melt blending using co- rotating twin-screw extruder. A combination of two compatibilizers, maleic anhydride grafted polypropylene (PP-g-MA) and styrene maleic anhydride (SMA) was applied into PP/PS blends. Results from the Izod impact strengths, SEM observations and contact angle measurements in PP(50)/PS(50) blends indicated a better compatibilization effect with the use of dual compatibilizers. This was most probably due to improved adhesion between phases in PP/PS blend systems. The use of dual compatibilizers in the blend compositions produced higher impact properties in the PP/PS blend systems compared to single compatibilizer system.

Keywords:

• Blends
• Compatibilizer
• Polypropylene (PP)
• Polystyrene (PS)

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

Authors would like to express their sincere thanks to SIRIM BERHAD and Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM RU-811070) for financial support and opportunity that has resulted in this article.