Location of functionalized-TiO2 nanoparticle in an immiscible PP/PA6 blends and its effect on the compatibility of the components

Nanocomposites based on 70/30 (w/w) polypropylene (PP)/polyamide 6 (PA6) immiscible blends and functionalized-TiO2 nanoparticles were prepared via melt compounding. The influences of TiO2 on the morphology of nanocomposites were investigated. Scanning electron microscopy results revealed the domain size of the dispersed PA6 phase decreased in presence of functionalized-TiO2 and the TiO2 nanoparticles were preferentially located at the PA6 phase and at the interfacial region between PP and PA6, which were ascertained by differential scanning calorimetry. The functionalized-TiO2 nanoparticles played the compatibilizer for the immiscible PP/PA6 blends, increasing the interaction of the two phases in certain extent. Therefore, a clear compatibiliting effect was induced by the TiO2 in the immiscible PP/PA6 blends.