The synthesis and investigation of physical properties of an ABA triblock copolymer of polyethylene (PE) and cellulose acetate butyrate (CAB) for compatibilization of PE and CAB is described herein. A three-step synthesis involving functionalization, polymerization, and hydrogenation affords a CAB-b-PE-b-CAB triblock copolymer which acts as a compatibilizer for the polymer blend. Initially, the CAB was monofunctionalized with a pendant olefin substituent on the reducing end through basic solvolysis. The olefin-terminated CAB behaved as a macro chain transfer agent (CTA) in cross-metathesis ring-opening metathesis polymerization (ROMP) of cyclooctadiene, yielding a triblock copolymer containing CAB and polybutadiene (PB). The CAB-b-PB-b-CAB copolymer was subject to hydrogenation, which converted the PB midblock into PE and produced the final compatibilizer CAB-b-PE-b-CAB. This triblock copolymer was added to coprecipitated blends of CAB and PE in 1, 2.5, and 5 wt. % quantities and the resulting mixtures were melt pressed to form films. Mechanical analysis of the films showed significant reinforcement of PE with as little as 1 wt. % compatibilizer. This system provides a cost-effective alternative to conventional PE with greater sustainability and enhanced strength.

Compatibilization of HDPE and cellulose derivatives: Exploring blends with sustainable polymers

Macromolecular Chemistry: The Second Century

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ACS Spring 2020 National Meeting & Expo

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