Rheological Responses and Morphology of Polylactide/Linear Low Density Polyethylene Blends Produced by Different Mixing Type

Abstract

Polylactide (PLA)/linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE) was produced by different mixing type, provided by combining different single screw elements. The relationship between rheological responses and morphology of the blends was investigated. It is shown from rheological curves that different morphology is reflected to be formed in blends produced by different mixing type. Han plots, van Gurp-Palmen plots and cole-cole curves show that a stronger interaction between polymer minor and matrix or co-continuous morphology appears in PLA/LLDPE (70/30) produced by high shear/chaotic mixing. This is in agreement with the results of morphology observation. In addition, the crystallization of blends is analyzed. Results show that the crystallity of blends produced by shear/chaotic mixing is decreased, due to the stronger interaction between the two phases in blends.

Keywords:

• Linear low density polyethylene
• Mixing
• Morphology
• Polylactide
• Rheological responses

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

Financial support provided by National Natural Science Foundation of China (10672061, 50803020), Guangdong Provincial Natural Science Foundation of China (9451064101002820) and Opening Project of The Key Laboratory of Polymer Processing Engineering, MOE of China (20071003) is gratefully acknowledged.