Properties of Blends of Novatein Thermoplastic Protein from Bloodmeal and Polybutylene Succinate Using Two Compatibilizers

The use of dual compatibilizers, poly (2-ethyl-2-oxazoline) (PEOX) and polymeric methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (pMDI) in Novatein thermoplastic protein from bloodmeal (NTP) and PBS blends were investigated. A composition of 50% of NTP was used for all formulations with different percentage compatibilizer. Mechanical, morphology, thermal and water absorption were used as analysis methods to study blend properties. To improve compatibility, two different approaches to blending the compatibilizers were used. Firstly, PEOX was added before extrusion this has improved the blend’s tensile strength. Secondly, addition of PEOX during NTP production followed by pMDI added before injection molding, showed a futher improvement in tensile strength. SEM revealed that PEOX has improved the dispersion of NTP and pMDI has strengthened the adhesion between phases consistent with mechanical property results. A broad tan δ peak in DMA analysis was obtained indicated improved compatibility in blends using two compatibilizers. In spite of that, the addition of dual compatibilizer has reduced the water resistance of PBS.