The Effect of Electron Beam Irradiation on PE-g-MA Compatibilised Linear Low-density Polyethylene/Soya Powder Blends

In current investigation, the linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE)/soya powder blends were compatibilised by polyethylene grafted maleic anhydride (PE-g-MA). The blends were prepared using internal mixer at a rotor speed of 50 rpm and temperature 150°C. The effect of LLDPE/soya powder composition and irradiation dose on the tensile properties of the blends was investigated. The results showed that an increase in soya powder content in the blends reduced the tensile strength and elongation at break. However, the tensile strength of LLDPE/soya powder blends was enhanced with the addition of the PE-g-MA and further improved after irradiated with electron beam (EB) irradiation. The tensile strength of the blends increased with increasing irradiation dose, but the elongation at break decreased. From the morphological study done with scanning electron microscopy (SEM), the LLDPE formed continuous matrix after irradiation.