Natural Rubber-g-Glycidyl Methacrylate/Styrene as a Compatibilizer in Natural Rubber/PMMA Blends

Abstract

Graft copolymer of glycidyl methacrylate and styrene onto natural rubber latex was synthesized by emulsion polymerization using cumene hydroperoxide and tetraethylene pentamine as a redox initiator. The effects of initiator and monomer concentration, reaction temperature and time on grafting efficiency and monomer conversion were investigated. The dynamic mechanical properties and morphology of grafted natural rubber were studied. The grafted natural rubber product could be used as a compatibilizer for natural rubber/PMMA blends. The mechanical properties such as tensile strength, elongation at break, tear strength, hardness, and impact energy were evaluated as a function of grafted natural rubber content. A good compatibility of natural rubber/PMMA blends was obtained at 5–10 phr of grafted natural rubber content. The fracture surface examined by scanning electron microscopy showed that the grafted natural rubber acted as an interfacial agent and gave a good adhesion between the two phases of the blend.