Compatibility studies of bromo butyl and polychloroprene elastomer blends through atomic force microscopy

Abstract

In order to determine and optimize structure property relationship in polymer blends, knowledge of microscopic morphology is essential. However, much of this microscopic morphology and physical property information work have not been yet done and is not readily available particularly using conventional characterization techniques. In the present study, the capability of topographic and force modulation or phase atomic force microscopy (AFM) for determining the detailed microstructure of bromo butyl (BIIR) and polychloroprene (CR) blends is evaluated. The modulation contrast obtained in this analysis of the blends allows distinguishing a phase and related morphology with ease and good specificity. AFM studies of the BIIR and CR blends in the presence and absence of compatibilizer chlorinated polyethylene (CPE) reveal that the CPE is acting as an efficient compatibilizer. In the presence of CPE as compatibilizer in the blends, the topo image demonstrates the single phase characteristics. Phase image indicates the uniformity in the phase distribution and has been observed in histogram plot which ultimately results in reduction of mean and rms deviations.