Modification of Poe with Eva in Melt through Statistical Approach-Formation of Double Network Hybrids

Abstract

Polar monomers are often grafted onto poly(ethylene-co-octene) [POE] to expand its application spectrum. However, the process frequently involves cautious handling of reactive monomers and hazardous solvents. On the contrary, the present work deals with similar modification but using a polymer, poly(ethylene-co-vinyl acetate) [EVA] in the melt through the formation of a double network hybrid using an external crosslinker. POE is an important new generation elastomer having great balance between physical and mechanical properties but its polarity needs to be improved for furthering its uses in industrial oil resistant applications and surface adhesion with other agents. The POE (major component)-EVA (minor component) hybrid compositions were designed using Taguchi statistical technique for optimization. Physico-mechanical properties like tensile, stress relaxation, hysteresis, rheological properties like pseudoplastic index, die swell and solvent swelling kinetics were investigated. The results were found depended on the network morphology of the hybrids. One composition was finally selected which produced better balance between all physico-rheological properties.