Reactive Compatibilization of Recycled Polyethylenes and Scrap Rubber in Thermoplastic Elastomers: Chemical and Radiation-Chemical Approach

Abstract

Abstract Reactive compatibilization of recycled low- or high-density polyethylenes (LDPE and HDPE, respectively) and ground tire rubber (GTR) via chemical interactions of pre-functionalized components in their blend interface has been carried out. Polyethylene component was functionalized with maleic anhydride (MAH); as well, the rubber component was modified via functionalization with MAH or acrylamide (AAm) using chemically or irradiation (γ-rays) induced grafting techniques. The grafting degree and molecular mass distribution of the functionalized polymers have been measured via FTIR and Size Exclusion Chromatography (SEC) analyses, respectively. Additional coupling agents such as p-phenylene diamine (PDA) and polyamide fiber were used for producing some thermoplastic elastomer (TPE). Thermoplastic elastomer materials based on synthesized reactive polyethylenes and GTR as well as ethylene-propylenediene monomer rubber (EPDM) were prepared by dynamic vulcanization of the rubber phase inside thermoplastic (polyethylene) matrix and their phase structure, and main properties have been studied using DSC, DMTA and mechanical testing. As a result, high performance thermoplastic elastomers based on functionalized polyethylene and ground rubber with improved mechanical properties have been developed.