Modification of EVOH copolymers with e-caprolactone: synthesis and compatibilization effects in PE/PVC blends

Abstract

Polyethylene-polycaprolactone graft copolymers with different chemical structures (i.e. different number and length of PCL grafts and molecular weight of PE backbone) were synthesized from various EVOH copolymers and ε-caprolactone, using Aluminum isopropoxide as catalyst, and were tested for their compatibilizing capability in PE/PVC blends. PE and PCL segments in the graft copolymers were found completely immiscible, while PCL segments of the graft copolymers were found completely miscible with PVC. When graft copolymers were added to PE/PVC blends they proved to be good agents for the dispersion of PVC phase in the PE matrix. SEM showed also improved adhesion between the dispersed PVC phase and PE matrix. Moderate improvements in mechanical properties were also observed in preliminary tensile tests.