Effects of reactive compatibilizer on the core–shell structured modifiers toughening of poly(trimethylene terephthalate)

Poly(trimethylene terephthalate)/polybutadiene grafted polymetyl methacrylate (PB-g-PMMA, MB) blends were prepared by melt processing with varying weight ratios (0–5 wt%) of diglycidyl ether of bisphenol-A (DGEBA) epoxy resin as a reactive compatibilizer. DMA result showed PTT was partially miscible with MB particles in the presence of the compatibilizer. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and rheological measurements further identified the reactions between PTT and DGEBA epoxy resin. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) displayed that the core–shell structured modifiers exhibit a smaller dispersed domain size with the addition of DGEBA epoxy resin. Mechanical tests showed the impact and tensile properties of PTT blends are improved by the introduction of DGEBA epoxy resin to the blends. SEM and TEM results showed shear yielding of PTT matrix and cavitation of rubber particles were the major toughening mechanisms.