Abstract

Addition of 4 different polystyrenes (PS) with various molecular weights to PVDF matrix has been studied. Morphology of samples were studied by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and crystallinity of samples were tested using FTIR. Melt viscosity and mechanical behavior were examined using rheometric and tensile was applied to study mechanical properties. All mechanical properties except Young’s modulus deteriorated in composites for low compatibility between them. SEM micrographs revealed a dispersed shape for the minor phase of no regular geometrical shape. FTIR spectra showed increase in β phase crystals upon addition of PS up to 39% compared to that of the neat PVDF. The rheological behavior was rather unusual and showed PS with mediocre storage and loss modulus has higher β phase crystal content compared to highest storage and loss modulus PS.

Keywords:Polyvinylidene fluoride; Polystyrene; Blend; Morphology; Rheology; Mechanical properties