Abstract
A series of tricomponent blends of poly(vinyl chloride)/chlorinated polyethylene/ethylene propylene diene terpolymer (PVC/CPE/EPDM) were prepared and studied. CPE was used not only to improve the room temperature impact resistance of PVC but also as a polymer compatibilizer; while EPDM was used to enhance the impact resistance of PVC especially in low temperature range. Our data showed that the improvements of PVCs impact strength were significant either at room temperature or at low temperature ( minus 12 degree C), however, a loss of the yield tensile strength was observed. On the basis of morphology, an impact-toughening mechanism of the tricomponent blend was proposed.