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Polystyrene/polyethylene terephthalate/polystyrene‐block–polycaprolactone blends: Emulsification and mechanical performance

1991; Wiley; Volume: 43; Issue: 9 Linguagem: Inglês

10.1002/app.1991.070430902

1097-4628

Ian McKay,

Recycling and Waste Management Techniques

Abstract A polystyrene‐polycaprolactone diblock copolymer was extrusion blended with polystyrene and polyethylene terephthalate. The morphologies of the resultant blends were studied using differential scanning calorimetry and scanning electron microscopy. In all compositions studied, the polystyrene and polyethylene terephthalate phases exhibited discrete glass transitions indicative of the immiscibility of these components. However, addition of the copolymer increased the extent of dispersion of the homopolymer components within one another quite effectively. Blend specimens were tested with respect to tensile, flexural, impact, and thermal performance characteristics to study the effects of morphology and composition on these factors. In general, the blends were rigid, brittle materials with some‐what enhanced thermal characteristics. Addition of polystyrene‐block‐polycaprolactone polymer to the blends resulted in increased brittleness, slightly reduced thermal performance, and, in some instances, greatly increased rigidity.