title: Molecular weight segregation on surfaces of polyethylene blended films as estimated from nanoscratch tests using scanning probe microscopy.
abstract: Nanoscratch tests using scanning probe microscopy (SPM) were performed on films prepared from two polyethylene (PE) materials polymerized by using a metallocene catalyst system with different molecular weights (MWs). Blended samples were prepared by dissolving both PE materials at various ratios in hot p-xylene. The pure and blended samples were compression molded into films at 180 degrees C for different holding times in the molten state. The results of SPM nanoscratch tests with an applied load of 30 nN indicated that the lower-MW surface could be easily plowed with wear debris but the higher-MW surface was less deformed. However, the deformation pattern of the blended film surface was similar to that of the lower-MW surface. These results suggest that MW segregation occurs during holding in the molten state as lower-MW components rise to the film surface.
authors: Department of Chemistry, Gunma University, Kiryu, Gunma 376-8515, Japan.
authors: Jun-Ichi
authors: J
authors: Suwa
authors: Masaki
authors: M
authors: Kakiage
authors: Takeshi
authors: T
authors: Yamanobe
authors: Tadashi
authors: T
authors: Komoto
authors: Hiroki
authors: H
authors: Uehara