Co-injection molding of immiscible polymers: skin-core structure and adhesion studies

Abstract

In this article, the microstructure and the adhesion developed in co-injected specimens obtained with polypropylene (PP; core) and polystyrene (PS; skin) were studied as a function of process conditions and additives used. The study shows that the incorporation of low amounts of fillers such as Nanoclays and styrene-ethylene-butadiene-styrene (SEBS) copolymer to the core material, working as compatibilizers, improves the adhesion at lower and higher polymer melt temperatures, respectively. The authors concluded as well that the use of such fillers, also improves the reproducibility of the process. The adhesion was assessed by shear tests using double lap shear specimens. A data acquisition system was attached to the mold to evaluate the pressure inside the cavity. Results of the in-mold pressure profiles corresponded well when compared with MoldFlow predictions, and demonstrated that the adhesion of both materials is also related to their behavior and shrinkage inside the mold.