Reactive extrusion is a cost-effective and environmentally-friendly method to produce new materials with enhanced performance properties. At present, reactive extrusion allows in-situ polymerization, modification/functionalization of polymers or chemical bonding of two (or more) immiscible phases, which can be carried out on commonly used extrusion lines. Although reactive extrusion has been known for many years, its application...

Screw extruders as continuous flow reactors allow the synthesis of new polymers, preparation of polymer blends and composites, and modification or functionalization of commercially available polymers. Literature data shows that the twin screw extrusion is the most popular solution used for this purpose. In contrast, the number of scientific papers on alternative methods, such as multi-screw extruders, is somewhat limited. This...

Nowadays, it is essential to reduce the environmental impact of products and technologies. Such an approach should be highlighted in all research activities. In the case of polymer composites, it can be realized by introducing by-products or waste materials as fillers. An auspicious example of such material is the brewers’ spent grain, the major byproduct of the beer production. Its chemical composition, relatively similar to conventional...

Thermoplastic starch (TPS)/ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) blends compatibilized with polyethylene-graft-maleic anhydride (PE-g-MA) were prepared from various native starches (potato, maize and waxy maize) and subjected to multiple extrusion cycles. Source of starch has significant impact on its composition, hence properties of obtained TPS and their blends with EVA. Higher content of amylopectin in waxy maize starch, comparing to...

Low-density polyethylene (LDPE) with different elastomers at a ratio of 50/50 wt% blends was prepared by using a co-rotating twin-screw extruder. Three kinds of elastomers were used: ground tire rubber (GTR), partially crosslinked butyl rubber (KalarVR ), and styrenebutadiene- rubber block copolymer (SBS; KratonVR ). For better characterization of interaction between polyethylene and elastomer, influence of the type of elastomer on...