Impact modification of poly(vinyl chloride) with chlorinated polyethylene I. Blend morphology

Abstract

The solid state morphology of chlorinated polyethylene (CPE)‐modified poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) and the relationship of blend structure to impact strength and mode of fracture have been investigated. Selective staining of the CPE phase showed that the morphology of the two phase system changes with increasing CPE content from a dispersion of discrete CPE particles to a network structure enveloping the primary PVC particles. The network formation coincides with a transition from brittle to ductile impact fracture. When the blend was mixed for too long a time or above the fusion temperature of the primary PVC particles, the CPE network was destroyed. The resulting indistinct domain structure is associated with a reduction in the impact properties. Copyright © 1984 Society of Plastics Engineers, Inc.