Compatibilized Polyamide/Ultra High Molecular Weight Polyethylene Blends

A study of the compatibilization of polyamide (PA)/ultra high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) blends by reactive processing has been initiated. Attention has been focused on the effect of compatibilization on the morphology and the mechanical and thermal behaviour of the resulting blend systems. A triblock copolymer, functionalized with maleic anhydride, has been found to have a profound effect on the properties of the blends. Compatibilized PA/UHMWPE blends combining the desirable properties of the two basic polymers will offer considerable development potential.