Processing and rheological behavior of <scp>cross‐linked</scp> polyethylene containing disulfide bonds

Vitrimers are a new class of materials that consist chemically cross-linked networks engage in thermoactivated associative exchange reactions. These reactions can impart malleability, healing, and recyclability properties to thermosets. In this study, one-step protocol prepare linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) vitrimer-like with disulfide bonds via reactive blending is presented. The cross-linking reaction maleic anhydride-grafted-linear (LLDPE-MAH) 4,4′-dithiodianiline was followed torque rheometer. degree MAH-functionalization its impact on the melt rheology, dynamic mechanical properties, thermal vitrimer studied. LLDPE possessed mostly elastic behavior, storage modulus (G′) higher than loss (G′′) entire frequency range. complex viscosity at high frequencies (>100 rad/s) comparable thermoplastic LLDPE. MAH-groups formation cross-links decreased crystallinity, which led decrease temperature 35°C. dimensional stability improved density, suggesting potential benefits vitrimers secondary manufacturing processes. Finally, reprocessing ability demonstrated internal mixing rheological were retained.