A new approach in modeling of mechanical properties of binary phase polymeric blends

Modeling of polymeric blends has attracted considerable attention due to simplification of blending processes, rapidity in usage and its inexpensive cost. So far, a great deal of effort has been made to seek new models with embodied correct assumptions and application of mathematical calculation process. In this work, direct and independent approximation model (DIA) including a consistency parameter, F(D), is proposed to predict the modulus of polymeric blends. Using F(D), two entirely different models are unified; one implies droplet-matrix structure and the other characterizes the modulus of co-continuous structure. Furthermore, a fraction of interconnected dispersed droplets (co-continuous sector) after percolation threshold is introduced by parameter R(D), which is also based on percolation theory. However, both introduced parameters are mathematically evaluated, and unlike the other proposed models they can simplify the calculation procedure significantly by preventing complicated geometrical shapes and parameters. Furthermore, as another advantage, any model which expresses the mechanical properties of co-continuous and/or droplet-matrix structure could be used as basis of DIA model. Considering pre-indicated volume fractions, a blend of polyamide and polyolefin elastomer was designed to compare the experimental data with DIA model predictions. Also, some other experimental data from other related research findings were used. The coincidence of the experimental data with the corresponding predictions of DIA model shows its high accuracy and validity.