Effect of Nano-Precipitated Calcium Carbonate on Mechanical Properties of PVC-U and PVC-U/Acrylic Blend

Developing nanocomposites based upon polymers and nano-sized fillers has been an attractive approach to achieving good properties. Effects of nano-precipitated calcium carbonate (NPCC) on the mechanical properties of different ductile matrices were investigated. Unplasticised Poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC-U) and PVC-U/acrylic were used as the matrix in this study. To produce the composites, PVC resins, additives, acrylic and NPCC were first dry-blended using a laboratory high-speed mixer before being milled into sheets on a two-roll mill. Test specimens were then hot pressed, after that the mechanical properties and morphology of fracture surface of composites were determined. The flexural modulus and Young modulus of both the composites were enhanced after the addition of NPCC, but the tensile strength was decreased. The NPCC showed good toughening effect and stiffening effect on PVC-U/acrylic and PVC-U matrix, respectively. The flexural strength of both the composites was not significantly affected by the addition of NPCC. The impact strength of both the composites reached the maximum value when 15 phr NPCC was incorporated