compatibilisaatio

Compatibilisation is a process used in polymer science to improve the miscibility and compatibility of two or more polymers that would otherwise separate into distinct phases. When blending polymers, immiscibility often leads to poor mechanical properties, such as reduced toughness and strength, because the interface between the different polymer phases is weak. Compatibilisation aims to create a more stable and finely dispersed morphology, thereby enhancing the overall performance of the polymer blend.

This is typically achieved by introducing a third component, known as a compatibiliser. Compatibilisers are usually block copolymers or graft copolymers that have segments or branches chemically similar to each of the polymers being blended. One part of the compatibiliser molecule dissolves or interacts strongly with one polymer, while another part interacts with the other polymer. This dual affinity allows the compatibiliser to act as an interfacial agent, reducing the interfacial tension between the phases and promoting adhesion.

The presence of compatibilisers can lead to finer droplet or domain sizes in the dispersed phase, creating a larger interfacial area. This increased adhesion and finer morphology can significantly improve properties such as tensile strength, impact resistance, and elongation at break. Common methods for incorporating compatibilisers include melt blending, where the polymers and compatibiliser are mixed and processed together at elevated temperatures. The choice of compatibiliser depends on the specific polymers being blended and the desired properties of the final material.