Reusing Ionomer Scraps as Impact Modifier in Polyamide 6

Blends of PA6 and ionomer scraps, with compositions ranging from 5 to 30 wt% ionomer without incorporation of compatibilizer, and blends with 10 and 20 wt% ionomer compatibilized with 2 wt% maleic anhydride grafted polyethylene copolymer (PEgMA) were obtained by extrusion. Their morphology (SEM), mechanical (tensile, flexural and impact tests) and thermal properties (HDT, DSC and TGA tests) were analyzed. The incorporation of ionomer in PA6 promoted an increase in strain at break and impact strength. PEgMA acted positively on these properties, increasing the interaction between the ionomer and PA6 phases. Tensile and flexural strength, tensile and flexural modulus decreased with increasing ionomer concentration. The compatibilizer acted significantly, reducing these properties. The crystallinity and melting temperature of PA6 were not influenced by the incorporation of ionomer and compatibilizer in the blends.