LLDPE/LDPE blends. I. Rheological, thermal, and mechanical properties

Structure and mechanical properties were studied for the binary blends of a linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE) (ethylene-1-hexene copolymer; density = 900 kg m(-3)) with narrow short chain branching distribution and a low density polyethylene (LDPE) which is characterized by the long chain branches. It was found by the rheological measurements that the LLDPE and the LDPE are miscible in the molten state. The steady-state rheological properties of the blends can be predicted using oscillatory shear moduli. Furthermore, the crystallization temperature of LDPE is higher than that of the LLDPE and is found to act as a nucleating agent for the crystallization of the LLDPE. Consequently, the melting temperature, degree of crystallinity, and hardness of the blend increase rapidly with increases in the LDPE content in the blend, even though the amount of the LDPE in the blend is small. (C) 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.