Development of novel composites of incompatible barrier polymers and their optimal processing conditions for recyclable thermoformable food packaging sheet

Abstract

Abstract. In this work, a high barrier polymer MXD6 (m-xylene diamine) has been incorporated in a PE (polyethylene) matrix to create an extensible, thermoplastic composite system. MXD6 is a high barrier and glassy polymer. However, being polar, it is incompatible with a non-polar PE. To this date, there were no significant attempts neither in compatibilizing a binary blend of PE/MXD6 nor in exploring the benefits of orientation on such a mixed system. The main value proposition in this work resides in reducing the dispersed MXD6 phase close to a submicron scale in the PE matrix by designing an adequate mixing process/compatibilizer method. Thermal characterization of the composites and the scanning electron microscopy have confirmed that the MXD6 dispersed phase in the compatibilized blends has been physically and thermally confined; its crystallization during cooling stage has been inhibited. The compatibilized blend shows a creation of an interface adhesion between phases. The dispersed phase average particle size is stabilized at around 0.5 μm enhancing the recyclability of the final product.