SPE Library

The SPE Library contains thousands of papers, presentations, journal briefs and recorded webinars from the best minds in the Plastics Industry. Spanning almost two decades, this collection of published research and development work in polymer science and plastics technology is a wealth of knowledge and information for anyone involved in plastics.

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Conference Proceedings

Reactive Extrusion of Cross Linked Block Copolymers - Structure and Potential as Impact Modifier for Pa 6

Marcus Poindl, Christian Bonten, May 2014

Recent studies show that blending PA 6 with a novel polyether block copolymer results in blends with high impact strength and high stiffness compared to conventional rubber blends. The block copolymers used as impact modifiers were prepared by continuous anionic polymerization in a reactive extrusion process (REX) using a twin screw extruder. They are semi crystalline and partially cross linked in contrast to commonly used amorphous and uncured rubbers. The structure of the blends was analyzed using different analysis methods like atomic force microscopy (AFM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Due to the cross linked structure of the block copolymers, the particles in the blends are not spherical like the particles of conventional rubbers. The differences in molecular structure, miscibility and grafting of the impact modifiers result in different mechanical properties and very different blend morphologies.

Coatable Wood Plastic Foams for Automotive Applications

Eric Homey, Achim Schmiemann, May 2014

The automotive Industry is searching for lightweight materials to decrease the energy that is needed to move a car. Especially materials that can be used for mass production are requested. Assisted injection molding methods like the water injection process are capable to fulfill these requirements. Another possibility to make thermoplastics even more light is to foam them, this causes a loss of mechanical strength. To improve the strength of the foamed material, natural fibers (NF) can be embedded. Both, the foaming and the use of NF, lead to an unsightly surface. So the surface on the exposed side has to be painted. State of the art is to coat plastic surfaces with polyurethane (PUR) [1]. In this study an acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), reinforced with wood fibers (WF), was foamed. One aspect of the material choice was that it can be coated with PUR in a one-shot-process. The mechanical properties of NF and foam modified ABS compounds were investigated. The adhesion between ABS and PUR was also verified.

Material Concept for Large-Scale Production of Finished Colored External Body Panels in Automobile

Jörg M. Hain, Achim Schmiemann, Paulo Bersch, May 2014

Lightweight construction is the elementary key of the Volkswagen CO2 reduction strategy. The goal is to design a car which is efficient as possible. The reduction of energy usage during production of the car as well during moving the car leads to research of new materials and new applications in the automotive Industry. The Volkswagen CO2 reduction strategy has three Main topics: • The right material at the right place • Reach the best Customer satisfaction • Use of new Technology including multi material design for Steel, Alumina, Plastics In the case of Plastics is the use of foamed polymers in combination with In-Mold coating is one focus of Volkswagen research. The following paper shows general lightweight aspects as well the topic “class A” surface for foamed body panels with the goal to use this process in a large scale.

The Effect of Reprocessing on Mechanical Properties of Polypropylene

Jinde Zhang, Joey Mead, Carol Barry, Artee Panwar, May 2014

Polypropylene (PP) was injection molded up to 20 runs to study the effect of recycling procedures. The influence of the recycling was studied by observing changes in melt viscosity, tensile and impact resistance properties. The main effect of recycling was decrease in melt viscosity, which is attributed to molecular weight reduction. The observed degradation processes only slightly affected the small strain properties of the materials studied. However, break properties were affected apparently. All the tensile properties related to breaking as well as impact resistance of recycled polypropylene decreased with recycling.

Formation of Part Defects in Water-Assisted Injection Molding (WAIM): Influence of Process and Material Parameters

Sofie Sannen, Jozefien De Keyzer, Peter Van Puyvelde, May 2014

Water-assisted injection molding (WAIM) enables the production of hollow or partially hollow products, having a higher quality and lower process cost when compared to products produced with other and earlier developed plastic processing techniques. However, the occurrence of (unwanted) defects in the final product is one of the current limitations of the WAIM process, for which in available research until now no clear explanations exists. In this study, the influence of process and material parameters on the occurrence of part defects was examined in a pre-defined reference experiment. With a qualitative defect analysis, it was found that within the reference setting a high water temperature, a low melt temperature and water holding pressure as well as the addition of nucleating agents are more favorable. The experimentally observed changes in defect occurrence, under influence of the applied parameter variation, can herewith be explained with the proposed definitions of the different defect types and their responsible formation mechanisms. In this way, the principle mechanisms behind the formation of part defects are enclosed in these definitions and mechanisms, which hence contribute to a more fundamental understanding of the WAIM process.

Binary Blends of Cycloolefin Copolymers

Emre Unsal, Alex Xue, Yatin Patil, Hoang Pham, Andrew Poslinski, May 2014

Binary blends of different grades of cycloolefin copolymers (COC) were prepared at different compositions via compounding in a twin-screw extruder. Thermal, mechanical and rheological properties of the COC blends were studied by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) and rotational rheometry. Results revealed the differences in the miscibility of different grades of COCs. This could be attributed to differences in the microstructures of the COCs determined by their synthesis method (catalyst type) and norbornene content of each component. Blends of Topas 8007 and Topas 5013 were immiscible but they were compatible to a certain degree. Two distinct Tg’s were observed at DSC and DMA, with a slight shift upon changing the composition of the blends. DSC data was used to model this behavior using two parameter Kwei model for the prediction of the Tg for the immiscible COC blends (8007/5013). Rheology data of the blends revealed that the phase inversion occurs at 45%-55% for the blends of two different Tg COCs. On the other hand Topas 8007 and Topas 6013 blends were miscible and single Tg was observed at DSC. Fox equation was used to model the Tg behavior of the miscible blends and the experimental results were in close agreement with the model.

Physics-Based Film Blowing Modeling to Enhance Empirical Film Property Predictions from Polymer and Processing Parameters

Tatyana Leonova, Stef Eijndhoven, Jaap den Doelder, May 2014

In this paper physics-based modeling of the film blowing process is combined with empirical film property relations. A hybrid approach for polymer processing-property prediction is provided. A continuum mechanics model is implemented to enhance the nominal fabrication input with calculated stresses, strains, and related parameters. Nominal and calculated parameters are candidate inputs for empirical property prediction. Data is used from various (linear low-density polyethylene) LLDPE resins, run under different conditions at laboratory and commercial-scale film blowing lines. The results based on temperature-dependent Newtonian constitutive relation indicate that the strategy lead to significant improvement of a quality of prediction of certain film properties.

Curing Study of a Green" Thermosetting Resin"

Michael Davis, John P. Droske, Wei Zheng, May 2014

A series of green" thermosetting resins oligomers of bis(hydroxyalkylene)-2-mercaptosuccinate has been reported recently [12]. Curing in these thermosetting resins results from crosslinking via pendant thiol groups. As part of an effort to realize and assess the potential of these resins as sustainable materialsthe curing process was investigated using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and rheology. The progression of physical and mechanical properties such as the glass transition temperature (Tg) and the shear moduluswas monitored as a function of time and temperature. Tg of the resin was found to increase with curing and the averaged Tg of the fully cured resin was found to be 72.6 K ± 1.2 K higher than uncured resin. The increase in Tg corresponded with the change in rheological properties. The shear modulus obtained for fully cured samples reached a high modulus of 6.5 × 106 Pa at 200 °C. Additionallythe gel point was measured from the crossover of the storage and loss moduli. Based on the gel points the apparent activation energy of curing also was determined."

Unexpected Dependence of Hydrolytic Performance of PC/ABS Blends: Specificity of Buffer Cation Type

Bin Sun, Amit S. Kulkarni, James L. DeRudder, May 2014

Compromised performance of hydrolytic stability has previously been shown in emulsion-ABS impact modified PC blends, resulting from acidic residual surfactants and coagulants in the impact modifiers. To neutralize the residual emulsifiers and coagulants in emulsion-ABS, buffers were added to the blends during the compounding step. A comparison of PC molecular weight retention upon hydroaging between blends with added buffers in different cation forms revealed enhanced hydrostability in blends added with a cation specific buffer. The addition of buffer containing the specific cation presented here holds promise as an effective strategy for improving hydrostability in PC/emulsion-ABS blends during compounding.

Thermal and Rheological Behavior of Plasticized Polyacrylonitrile and Melt Spinning of Precursor Fibers

Jianhua Huang, Donald G. Baird, Felix L. Paulauskas, May 2014

While there is tremendous interest in the melt spinning of polyacrylonitrile (PAN) with presence of plasticizers, the behavior of plasticized PAN melt and the spinning process have not been adequately investigated so far. In this paper the melting and rheological behavior was studied for PAN plasticized with water or water and a second plasticizer. A lab scale pressurized fiber spinning system was developed and used to generate melt-spun fibers as carbon fiber precursors. The morphological and mechanical properties of the fibers were evaluated and compared with commercial wet-spun fibers. The meltspun PAN fibers have surface and mechanical properties similar to those of commercial fibers.

Morphological and Rheological Properties of PBS/Silica Nanocomposite Manufactured Using a High-Speed Twin-Screw Compounder

Xun Chen, Bin Tan, Margaret Sobkowicz, May 2014

The effects of silica chemistry and high-speed compounding on the morphology and rheology of poly(butylene succinate) (PBS)/fumed silica nanocomposites were investigated in this work. The filler content of the nanocomposites was determined by thermogravimetric analysis and matched estimated values well. Depending on the distribution and surface chemistry of fillers, distinct surface texture could be identified in the PBS/silica nanocomposites. Using high-speed mixing and compatibilizing surface functionalizations can result in enhanced polymer-particle interactions and influence the composite rheology dramatically. The relaxation hierarchy can be identified from the linear viscoelastic response of PBS compounded with mixture of modified and pure fumed silica particles.

Composition Dependence on the Mechanical Behavior of Hydrophobic Lignocellulose-Reinforced Poly (Trimethylene) Terephthalate Composites

Jennifer Lynch, Thomas Nosker, Arya Tewatia, May 2014

Lignocellulosic fiber-reinforced thermoplastic composites offer many property and environmental benefits. The major issue to overcome is moisture absorption due to the hydrophilic nature of the lignocellulosic component. The aim of this work is to combine hydrophobic natural fibers (NF) and a thermoplastic to produce a novel wood polymer composite that offers moisture resistance, dimensional stability, and resistance to microbial attack. Hydrophobic NFs are combined with polytrimethylene terephthalate using a novel, injection molding method and the flexural, tensile, and impact resistance mechanical properties presented.

Property Development of Semi-Crystalline Polymers in Sintering Processes

William Aquite, Andrés Tapia, Jochen Kettemann, Galip Yilmaz, Tim A. Osswald, May 2014

In additive manufacturing processes such as Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) and Selective Mask Sintering (SMS), shrinkage and warpage effects tend to be some of the major sources of error that affect dimensional stability and part quality. Most of these inaccuracies are due to thermal processes that take place over time. The present work includes an experimental and analytical approach to study the relationship between crystallization and development of mechanical properties over time during the sintering process. These properties are necessary when predicting shrinkage and residual stress build up during the crystallization process.

Post-Consumer Recycle (PCR) Solution for PC/ABS Blends

Huanbing Wang, May 2014

To meet the continued commitment on environmental sustainability, SABICTM has developed and commercialized PCR PC/ABS blends portfolio, which provide more options for customer to choose Cycoloy product. PCR Cycoloy grades are all PC/ABS blends containing 30~35% recycled polycarbonate from post-consumer CD and/or water bottle. RCM6123 and RCM6134 are filled grades, while RCY6214, RCY6113, RCY6013 and RCY6713 are non-filled. These grades were developed for various applications with additional value on environmental sustainability. At the same time, in most applications they showed comparable properties to corresponding virgin grade.

Vapor-Foamed Injection Molding of Polycarbonate Using Sodium Chloride and Active Carbon as Nucleating Agents

Jun Peng, Xiaofei Sun, Yottha Srithep, Xiang-Fang Peng, Lih-Sheng Turng, May 2014

This paper presents a new process for producing vapor-foamed polycarbonate (PC) parts using water vapor as the physical blowing agent and two kinds of nucleating agents, namely, sodium chloride (NaCl) particles and active carbon (AC) powder. The effects of these two nucleating agents on the surface roughness, mechanical properties, and microstructure of solid and foamed parts were characterized. The results were compared with microcellular injection molded parts using supercritical fluid (SCF) nitrogen as the physical blowing agent without a nucleating agent. The water vapor-foamed PC parts with NaCl as the nucleating agent had a smooth surface comparable to that of solid injection molded parts. Foamed PC parts with AC had desirable specific mechanical properties as well as an advantageous average weight reduction of 16.4 wt%. AC powder, serving as nucleating agents, water carrier, and reinforcing fillers, positively improved the microcellular structure and mechanical properties of vapor-foamed PC parts. Based on infrared spectrometry (IR) and gel permeation chromatography (GPC) results, the melt compounding processing to incorporate the nucleating agent and the vapor-foaming process caused minor thermal degradation and hydrolytic degradation, respectively. Without the nucleating agent, vapor-foamed PC parts exhibited much larger and fewer bubbles within the molded parts.

Enhancing Cell Nucleation for a Novel Microcellular Injection Molding Process Using Gas-Laden-Pellets

Xiaofei Sun, Hrishikesh Kharbas, Lih-Sheng Turng, May 2014

A novel and cost-effective method of microcellular injection molding using gas-laden pellets has been developed. In this study, several methods, as well as their combinations to enhance the gas-laden pellets’ foamability, have been attempted including (a) enhancing homogeneous nucleation by blending N2- and CO2-laden pellets to create an N2/CO2 synergetic effect, (b) enhancing heterogeneous nucleation by incorporating talc as a nucleating agent, and (c) enhancing heterogeneous nucleation by compounding PP/HDPE immiscible blends. The results show that these methods effectively improved the cell nucleation rate and cell morphology. Moreover, it was found that these methods could also be superimposed on one another without conflict, thus leading to further improvements.

The Newly Developed Fluorine Type Epoxy Resin Having Excellent Adhesion and Low Dk/Df Characteristics

Ju-yeon Beak, May 2014

The mobile communication devices require high speed transmission of large volume data and reduction in size and weight. When signal is transtitted in high speed and frequency on PCB, signal integrity becomes a big problem. One of the most widely used methods to solve the problem is to apply materials having good adhesion and low Dk/Df characteristics. Although various materials are available for the purpose, they tend to be expensive and require special care during the fabrication process. Therefore, PCB makers have been looking for more affordable and easily handleable materials that can be implemented outstanding adhesion and low Dk/Df. To meet these demands, we have developed epoxy resins containing fluorine. This fluorine type epoxy resins are obtained by applying fluorine based materials having high adhesion and low Dk/Df properties. So after epoxidation, the introduction of fluorine into the chain of the epoxy resin resulted in improving the adhesion and dielectric properties.

Experimental Studies on Extrusion Process of Polypropylene Double-Lumen Micro Tube in Medical Applications

Danyang Zhao, Huiqing Tian, Minjie Wang, Guobao Jin, May 2014

A polymer micro tube with multi-lumen is difficult to fabricate. In this study, an extrusion die of double-lumen micro tube was designed and fabricated. Different processing conditions affecting the ovality and the thickness uniformity were investigated. The results indicated that the contour ovality was significantly influenced by gas flow rate, screw speed, die temperature and vacuum degree of water tank. The thickness uniformity of micro tube was determined by the die design method and the manufacturing precision. The desired double-lumen tube with an outer diameter of 1.6 mm was obtained by the optimization of processing conditions.

Improving Foaming Properties of Low Melt-Strength Polyethylene via Controlled Crosslinking

Xuelian Chen, Wenbin Liang, Shih-yaw Lai, May 2014

Crosslinking is widely used to improve foaming properties for low melt-strength polyethylene. However, premature crosslinking will not only suppress the growth of microcells, but also severely affect the melt processibility. It is thus very difficult to obtain highly crosslinked foamed polyethylene products. This paper describe a novel foaming process through manipulating the viscoelasticity of the polymer melt in response to the decomposition of the chemical blowing agent (BA). Practical guidelines to achieve low density polyethylene foam products with high crosslinking degree are provided.

The Gas Counter Pressure Effect on the Carbon Fiber Orientation Distribution Study in Injection Molding

Kuan-Hua Lee, Shia-Chung Chen, Ya-Lin Tseng, Yuan-Jung Chang, Tzu-Chang Wang, Wen-Hsien Yang, May 2014

With a large demand of polymer composites in all manner of industries, product development has focused on good mechanical strength and functionality with fiber composites. The key of development lies on the control of fiber orientation and distribution. This study applies Gas Counter Pressure(GCP) in injection molding to investigate the fiber orientation on different layers of thickness(core, shear and skin) and numerous part locations(far, center, and near as referred to the entrance of gate). As a result, the counter pressure is directly related to fiber orientation. Under the molding parameters of 80°C mold temperature, 230°C melted temperature, and 10cm3/s injection speed, the higher counter pressure, the greater anisotropic fiber distribution. Since GCP forced the core to skin, the most anisotropic distribution is on core layer, then the orientation and skin layer in sequence. For the fiber orientation in part, it has better anisotropic fiber distribution around the area farther from the gate, which is because the fiber orientation perpendicular to the cross section of product is affected dramatically by the pressure. In addition, a simulation tool, Moldex3D, is utilized to verify experiment results. The simulation shows high agreement with experiment on the trend of various locations. It can be proved that injection molding with GCP can increase disturbing level effectively.