The blending process of LLDPE (Linear Low Density Polyethylene) with maleic anhydride without initiator at Rheomix 600

It is known that the presences of hydrolysable and oxidisable functional group in main chain of synthetic polymer are apparent to be essential for biodegradation. To created functional group the blending LLDPE with maleic anhydride has been done. Maleic anhydride in varying concentration (between 5 and 25%) was blended with LLDPE without initiator in Rheomix 600. The torque and melt tempature during blending are reported as a function of maleic anhydride content. The torque and melt tempature are decrease but the tensile strength increase with increasing maleic anhydride content in the blend. FTIR analysis indicated the presence of ketone, carboxylic acid, double bond as well as anhydride functional group in LLDPE main chain, except of LLDPE with 5% maleic anhydride,it is no double bond in LLDPE main chain. It could be expected that this modification of LLDPE might be one of an alternative way to modify a synthetic polymer for possible biodegradation.