Effect of phase morphology and interfacial strength on barrier properties of high density polyethylene/polyamide 6 membranes

A barrier and resistance membrane consisting of alternating layers of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and polyamide 6 (PA6) was prepared by microlayered coextrusion. The influence of phase morphology, number of layers, and compatibilizer (CP) content of HDPE/PA6-microlayered membranes on their gas barrier and water resistance properties were characterized using a scanning electron microscopy, gas in permeability, and water absorption tests. The results suggest that this special-layered structure led to significant improvement of gas barrier and water resistance properties, compared with conventional membranes. In addition, the barrier and resistance properties of microlayered membranes were obviously enhanced with increased number of layers and CP content. An optimal number of layers and CP content were determined for the improved barrier and resistance properties. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 2013. © 2013 Society of Plastics Engineers