Compatibilization of Immiscible Poly(propylene)/Polystyrene Blends Using Clay

Inorganic clay was investigated as a compatibilizer for immiscible poly(propylene)/polystyrene blends. A substantial decrease in the number of polystyrene particles was seen after adding small amounts of an organically treated clay (2–5 wt.‐%) to the blends. A possible mechanism for this kind of compatibilization is discussed, but these unique and completely new findings need further verification. Schematic representation of the intercalated structure in PP/PS/OMMT blends: (a) PP and PS confined in the same gallery of OMMT, and (b) parts of PP and PS molecules located outside the gallery serving as a compatibilizer. magnified image Schematic representation of the intercalated structure in PP/PS/OMMT blends: (a) PP and PS confined in the same gallery of OMMT, and (b) parts of PP and PS molecules located outside the gallery serving as a compatibilizer.