On the Preparation and Characterization of Polyethylene/Polyamide Blends by Melt Processing in the Presence of an Ethylene/Acrylic Acid Copolymer and of New Phosphazene Compounds

Samples of HDPE and PA6 have been meltprocessed in the presence of two new phosphazene compounds, CP-2EPOX and CP-2OXA together with an ethylene/acrylic acid copolymer. The blends have been prepared in an industrial twin-screw extruder by using PA6 and PE in weight ratios of 25/75 and 75/25. When used, 5 phr of EAA and 0.2 phr of CP have been added. The materials have been completely characterized from a rheological, morphological, and mechanical point of view. The results indicate that the additives used caused an increase in the rupture tensile properties, of the impact strength and viscosity especially in the PE-rich blend in the presence of CP-2EPOX. This result can be attributed both to a chain extension reaction on EAA and PA6 phases and on compatibilization effect due to the possible formation of EAA-g-PA6 copolymers. This latter occurrence is suggested by an improved adhesion between the phases and by an increased turbidity observed in the Molau tests. Between the two compatibilizers, the CP-2EPOX displays the overall best results, especially for the PE-based blends.