Enhancing Performance: Cross- Linking Strategies For Improved Mechanical And Rheogical Properties In LDPE/iPP Polymer Blends

Abstract

The field of polymer blend design is rapidly evolving, offering opportunities to create materials with precisely tailored properties. Understanding the morphology resulting from blends of immiscible polymers is essential for achieving desired mechanical attributes. This study delves into the intricate interplay between structure and properties in both unmodified blends of LDPE and iPP and cross-linking-modified blends. Through a combination of rheological assessments and mechanical testing, our investigation reveals significant insights. We find that cross-linked materials exhibit notably higher viscosity, indicative of a three-dimensional network formation and enhanced stability. Additionally, LDPE demonstrates improved behavior post- crosslinking. The decrease in melt flow index post-crosslinking suggests heightened resistance to flow and deformation, owing to the formation of additional interchain bonds. Unmodified blends display increased flexibility and ductility with higher PP content, while cross-linking induces rigidity. However, cross-linking mitigates rigidity in blends with lower iPP content, resulting in enhanced flexibility. Moreover, mechanical strength significantly improves with iPP incorporation and cross-linking agents, reinforcing structural integrity. Furthermore, impact resistance benefits from iPP incorporation and cross-linking, rendering the materials suitable for applications requiring robust performance under challenging conditions.