Effect of cross?linking on the mechanical properties, degree of crystallinity and thermal stability of polyethylene vitrimers

Maleic anhydride-grafted-polyethylene was dynamically cross-linked via reactive melt blending with 4,4?-dithiodianiline. Thermal and mechanical properties of polyethylene vitrimers different cross-linking density were investigated. The results indicate that the degree crystallinity decreased increasing density. This behavior directly related to short-term long-term properties: showed a decrease in yield strength creep performance. PE linearly relation crystallinity. Polarized optical microscopy revealed cross-links inhibit growth spherulites structure vitrimers. Thermogravimetric analysis indicated an increase onset degradation temperature decomposition rate for increased stiffness which led higher damping properties. Finally, it demonstrated reprocessing vitrimer possible without significant impact