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(Reference retrieved automatically from Web of Science through information on FAPESP grant and its corresponding number as mentioned in the publication by the authors.)

Mechanical, thermal and morphological characterization of polypropylene/biodegradable polyester blends with additives

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Author(s):
Rosa, D. S. [1] ; Grillo, D. [2] ; Bardi, M. A. G. ; Calil, M. R. [2] ; Guedes, C. G. F. [2] ; Ramires, E. C. [3] ; Frollini, E. [3]
Total Authors: 7
Affiliation:
[1] Univ Fed ABC, BR-09210170 Santo Andre, SP - Brazil
[2] Univ Sao Francisco, BR-12900000 Braganca Paulista, SP - Brazil
[3] Univ Sao Paulo, Inst Quim Sao Carlos, BR-05508 Sao Paulo - Brazil
Total Affiliations: 3
Document type: Journal article
Source: Polymer Testing; v. 28, n. 8, p. 836-842, DEC 2009.
Web of Science Citations: 16
Abstract

The (bio)degradation of polyolefins can be accelerated by modifying the level of crystallinity or by incorporation of carbonyl groups by adding pro-oxidants to masterbatches or through exposure to ultraviolet irradiation. In this work we sought to improve the degradation of PP by adding cobalt, calcium or magnesium stearate to Ecoflex(R), PP or Ecoflex(R)/PP blends. The effect of the pro-oxidants on biodegradability was assessed by examining the mechanical properties and fluidity of the polymers. PP had higher values for tensile strength at break and Young's modulus than Ecoflex(R), and the latter had little influence on the properties of PP in Ecoflex(R)/PP blends. However, the presence of pro-oxidants (except for calcium) reduced these properties. All of the pro-oxidants enhanced the fluidity of PP, a phenomenon that facilitated polymer degradation at high temperatures. (C) 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved. (AU)