Compatibilization of Polymer Blends

Most polymer blends are immiscible and need to be compatibilized. The compatibilization must accomplish: (i) optimization of the interfacial tension, i.e., the degree of dispersion; (ii) stabilize the morphology against high stresses during forming, and (iii) enhance adhesion between the phases in the solid state. Compatibilization is accomplished either by addition of a compatibilizer or by reactive processing. The presentation will focus on the fundamental aspects, viz. description of the interphase, compatibilization by addition and reactive compatibilization.Peer reviewed: NoNRC publication: Ye