Interface Characterization of PP/TPS Blends by their Rheology/Morphology Assessments

In this study, Corn starch was plasticized by glycerol and water using a twin screw extruder. Then,thermoplastic starch (TPS)/polypropylene (PP) blends was prepared by melt mixing at a constant 70:30 (mass/mass) ratio in an internal mixer incorporating 0 to 30 percent PP-g-MA as compatibilizer with respect to TPS. The scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and a parallel plate rheometer were utilized to assess interface/morphology relationship of the blends. The frequency sweep rheometry showed that the melt elasticity increased with increasing compatibilizer to 20%. The SEM images showed negligible changes in morphology of blends after the compatibilizer concentration reached that concentration.