Thermoplastic Olefin Blends containing a novel polyampholyte elastomer

This research will investigate blends of polypropylene with a novel polyampholyte elastomer, which can serve as alternatives to traditional thermoplastic vulcanizates. This approach will enable the dispersion of physically crosslinked elastomeric particles inside a PP matrix, with potential benefits in terms of mechanical properties, weatherability, fatigue and abrasion resistance, and good impact properties at low temperature, while maintaining excellent processability. Because of the presence of surface charge on the polyampholyte phase, the material is also expected to have improved compatabilty with siliceous fillers, as well as adhesive properties and paintability that are equivalent of superior to the parent maleated EPR material, thus alleviating the need for expensive surface treatments. The proposed blends can deliver substantial improvements in adhesive properties, thus resulting in a more easily paintable material, for example utilizing electrostatic painting techniques. This is a crucial need in applications where exceptional surface properties are needed, such as in automotive panels and bumper fascia.This research will investigate blends of polypropylene with a novel polyampholyte elastomer, which can serve as alternatives to traditional thermoplastic vulcanizates. This approach will enable the dispersion of physically crosslinked elastomeric particles inside a PP matrix, with potential benefits in terms of mechanical properties, weatherability, fatigue and abrasion resistance, and good impact properties at low temperature, while maintaining excellent processability. Because of the presence of surface charge on the polyampholyte phase, the material is also expected to have improved compatabilty with siliceous fillers, as well as adhesive properties and paintability that are equivalent of superior to the parent maleated EPR material, thus alleviating the need for expensive surface treatments. The proposed blends can deliver substantial improvements in adhesive properties, thus resulting in a more easily paintable material, for example utilizing electrostatic painting techniques. This is a crucial need in applications where exceptional surface properties are needed, such as in automotive panels and bumper fascia.

Faculty Supervisor:

Dr. Marianna Kontopoulou

Student:

Andrew Powell

Partner:

E.I. DuPont Canada Co.

Discipline:

Engineering - chemical / biological

Sector:

Chemicals

University:

Queen's University