Abstract
This research explored replacing acrylic core-shell impact modifier (AIM) by silica fume to toughen PVC. 100%, 75%, 50% and 25% of AIM (8 phr) were substituted by silica fume in PVC respectively, and then processed by dry blending and twin-screw extrusion. Severe silica fume agglomeration was observed by scanning electron microscope (SEM) in the PVC matrix when 8 phr pure silica fume was used and processed by screw speed of 20 rpm. Its tensile strength was thereby reduced by 38% comparing to unmodified PVC. The silica fume was successfully dispersed while the screw speed was slowed down to 10 rpm to give a stronger screw torque and a longer melt residential time in the extruder. The tensile strength was ‘recovered’ to a level comparable to unmodified PVC. Impact test were performed on all formulations extruded at 10 rpm screw speed and synergetic toughening effect was found with 50% substitution and it had the impact strength that was comparable to 8 phr pure AIM toughened PVC.
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Huang, J., Ma, B., Li, X. et al. Microstructure and mechanical properties of poly (vinyl chloride) modified by silica fume / acrylic core-shell impact modifier blends. J. Wuhan Univ. Technol.-Mat. Sci. Edit. 27, 886–891 (2012). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11595-012-0568-2
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11595-012-0568-2