Specific interactions and their effect on the properties of filled polymers

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Abstract
The surface characteristics of olefinic polymers and of CaCO3, TiO2, and carbon black particles have been determined by inverse gas chromatography. Cold, microwave plasma techniques were used to modify the surface properties of the particulates. The mechanical properties of blends using the various fillers were determined. It was found that adhesion at the polymer-filler interface exerts a considerable influence on the mechanical responses. In a non-polar polymer host (LLDPE), adhesion is promoted by minimizing the acid or base properties of the fillers. In an acidic matrix (EVA), interfacial bonding is strongly promoted by the existence of acid-base interactions. Thus, acid-base coupling is identified as an important control factor in targeting the selection of fillers to be used with specified matrix polymers.