Dual Effect of Polyphosphazene and Halloysite Nanotubes in the Blends of Poly(Phenylene Oxide)/Liquid Crystalline Polymer

Abstract

The present study investigates the effect of polyphosphazene elastomer and halloysite nano tubular fillers in the blend of poly(phenylene oxide) and liquid crystalline polymer. Fabricated materials were extensively investigated with field emission scanning electron microscope, high resolution transmission electron microscope, thermogravimetric analyzer, rheometer, universal testing machine, and dynamic mechanical thermal analyzer. Significant changes in morphology were observed when fillers were added along with the compatibilizing agent polyphosphazene. Filler-matrix adhesion improves in the presence of polyphosphazene that results in the reduction in the average domain sizes of the dispersed phase where the interfacial phenomena controls the size of the dispersed phase.

GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT

Keywords:

• Blend
• Compatibility
• Halloysite nanotubes
• Morphology
• Nanocomposite

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

We thank CRF, IIT Kharagpur for availing of research facilities.