Effects of a Compatibilizer on the Tensile Properties of Low-Density Polyethylene/Modified Starch Blends

Abstract

In this study, thermoplastic starch (TPS), cross-linked starch (CS), and cross-linked starch modified with glycerol (CTPS) were prepared, and the mechanical properties of the compatibilized low-density polyethylene (LDPE) blends (LDPE/TPS, LDPE/CS, and LDPE/CTPS) were investigated and compared with those of uncompatibilized LDPE/TPS, LDPE/CS, and LDPE/CTPS blends. Maleic-anhydride-grafted polyethylene was used as the compatibilizer. The enhanced tensile strength and elongation at break for the compatibilized LDPE/modified starch blends are a result of the improved compatibility between LDPE and the modified starch, which was confirmed by torque measurements and scanning electron microscopy.

Effect of Acid-Hydrolyzed Thermoplastic Starch on the Mechanical, Thermal and Morphological Properties of Polyethylene Based Composites

“…The maximum stress of the LDPE/TPS 50/50 composites is reduced by up to 42% when the TPS is hydrolyzed and by up to 36% when the TPS comes from the native starch. Park et al [26] have previously noted that the typical tendency of these types of blends is that both the increase in the TPS concentration of the composite and the addition of glycerol contribute to a reduction in the maximum stress of the composites, which is in agreement with the findings of the present study.…”