Comparison of the Properties of a Random Copolymer and a Molten Blend PA6/PA6.9

Abstract

This study compares the thermal and mechanical properties of two different materials, obtained via two diverse synthetic pathways. The first one is a mixed blend of PA6/PA6.9, while the second is a random copolymer (PA6.9-ran–PA6, obtained via copolymerization of its monomers, i.e., caprolactam, hexamethylenediamine and azelaic acid). Several tests are carried out according to the aforementioned pathways, varying the relative ratio between the two polymeric building blocks. The role of the synthetized plastic is to be coupled to polyamide material, such as PA6, to confer its better properties. The synthetized random copolymer, besides displaying ease of processability with respect to conventional methods, exhibits interesting features. It has a low melting point (135 °C, PA6.9-ran-PA6 50:50) and therefore it might be used as a hot-melt adhesive in composite material. Owing to its low crystallinity content, the material displays a rubber-like behavior and may be employed to confer elastomeric properties to PA6 matrix, in place of non-amidic material (for example elastomeric polyurethanes). This leads to a further advantage in terms of chemical recyclability of the end-of-life material, since the additive increases the percentage of PA6 in waste material and, consequently, the yield of caprolactam recovery.