PC/ABS BLENDS - COMPATIBILIZATION AND MECHANICAL-BEHAVIOR

PC/ABS(M) blends, encompassing the whole composition range between pure PC and ABS(M), were prepared by melt-mixing in a Brabender-like apparatus. Thermal, mechanical and impact tests were performed on compression moulded specimens. Inward Tg shifts were detected for PC and ABS(M) in the blends with respect to pure PC and ABS(M) values, indicating an interaction between the component domains. This finding was confirmed by the comparison of the experimental tensile moduli with the Kerner's model predictions, showing an evidence of a good adhesion between the phases. A synergistic effect was observed for the impact strength as well as for the maximum stress at an ABS(M) blend content of about 25 weight %. All the results are interpreted on the basis of an interlayer existing at the boundary between the PC and ABS phases. A preliminary investigation on the influence of the ABS internal composition, keeping constant all the other conditions (mixing, processing, specimen preparation), was carried out as well. Differences in the properties of PC/ABS(M) and PC/ABS(B) blends are thoroughly discussed. The compatibility between PC and ABS domains seems to be scarcely influenced by such a parameter in these blends.