Effect of reactive compatibilizers and impact modifier on the performance characteristics of polycarbonate/poly (acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene) blends obtained from E-waste

Interfacial agents such as compatibilizers have recently been introduced into polymer blends to improve microstructure and mechanical properties of thermoplastics materials. This method is proven to be an effective way to prepare a mixture of polymeric materials from E-waste that can have superior mechanical properties over a wide temperature range. This study is focused on the characterization and mechanical recycling of plastics, namely Polycarbonate (PC), Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) and PC/ABS blends via melt blending technique. Mechanical characterization of prepared blend has been carried out to determine the optimum composition range. The experimental results showed that the prepared blends were incompatible in nature. Addition of maleic anhydride grafted ABS and SBS suggests improved compatibility and impact performance. The grafting mechanism of MA into ABS was explored, which is considered as a key factor resulting a special morphology of ABS domains dispersed in PC matrix. The thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), differential scanning calorimeter (DSC), and morphology results revealed improved stability as compared to recycled plastics.