The effect of sample processing parameters on breakdown properties of polyethylene and polypropylene blends

Abstract

This project determined the effect of sample processing parameters on breakdown properties of polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP) blends. Thermoplastic polymer blends composed of high density polyethylene (HDPE) and PP homopolymer were formulated through melt blending method with different temperatures and durations. The breakdown properties of the polymer blend samples processed at different temperatures and durations were investigated and analysed. Six different processing parameters, i.e., 170°C temperature and 5 minutes duration, 170°C temperature and 15 minutes duration, 180°C temperature and 5 minutes duration, 180°C temperature and 15 minutes duration, 200°C temperature and 5 minutes duration, and 200°C temperature and 15 minutes duration were chosen for investigation purposes. The result of breakdown strength obtained were analysed using Weibull software. The results showed that blending PE and PP at 180°C temperature and 15 minute duration resulted in the highest breakdown strength of the material. These AC and DC performance provide a useful insight into the optimal processing parameters to prepare laboratory scale PE and PP blends.