Enhanced compatibility of PA6/POE blends by POE-g-MAH prepared through ultrasound-assisted extrusion

The effects of POE-g-MAH, prepared through different methods, on morphology and properties of PA6/POE/POE-g-MAH blends are summarized in this article. The grafting degree of POE-g-MAH can be increased through the ultrasound-assisted extrusion. Experimental results showed that the addition of POE-g-MAH can increase the mechanical properties of the PA6/POE blend and decrease the particle size of POE dispersed phase in PA6 matrix due to the compatibilization by POE-g-MAH. The PA6/POE blend compatibilized by POE-g-MAH prepared through the ultrasound-assisted extrusion has smaller particle size of POE dispersed phase and higher notched Izod impact strength than that by POE-g-MAH with similar grafting degree initiated only by peroxide. This result is ascribed to some anhydride rings attached to the chain terminus of POE due to ultrasound initiation. Rheological and Molau test results also showed enhanced compatibilization of POE-g-MAH prepared through the ultrasound-assisted extrusion on the PA6/POE blend due to a structural difference of POE-g-MAH. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2010