Crystallization behavior and mechanical properties of poly(ethylene oxide)/poly(L-lactide)/poly(vinyl acetate) blends

• Published in: Journal of applied polymer science 2001-12, Vol.82 (14), p.3618-3626
• Main Authors: Kim, Kwang-Sok, Chin, In-Joo, Yoon, Jin San, Choi, Hyoung Jin, Lee, Dong Choo, Lee, Kwang Hee
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Applied sciences; compatibilizer; Exact sciences and technology; Organic polymers; PEG-PLLA block copolymer; PEO/PLLA blend; Physicochemistry of polymers; Properties and characterization; PVAc; Thermal and thermodynamic properties
• ISSN: 0021-8995; 1097-4628
• DOI: 10.1002/app.2224

Poly(vinyl acetate) (PVAc) was added to the crystalline blends of poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) and poly(L‐lactide) (PLLA) (40/60) of higher molecular weights, whereas diblock and triblock poly(ethylene glycol)–poly(L‐lactide) copolymers were added to the same blend of moderate molecular weights. The crystallization rate of PLLA of the blend containing PVAc was reduced, as evidenced by X‐ray diffraction measurement. A ringed spherulite morphology of PLLA was observed in the PEO/PLLA/PVAc blend, attributed to the presence of twisted lamellae, and the morphology was affected by the amount of PVAc. A steady increase in the elongation at break in the solution blend with an increase in the PVAc content was observed. The melting behavior of PLLA and PEO in the PEO/PLLA/block copolymer blends was not greatly affected by the block copolymer, and the average size of the dispersed PEO domain was not significantly changed by the block copolymer. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 82: 3618–3626, 2001