The Rheological and Mechanical Properties of PVC-Lignin Blends

The rheological and mechanical properties of PVC-lignin blends were studied, and their alterations were investigated after lignin was treated with poly(ethyl acrylate-co-maleic anhydride). The addition of lignin changes the early rheological properties of the blend comparing with PVC control because the rigidity of lignin particles leads to more intensive shearing in the system, but has little effect on its rheology during the equilibrium period. The processing stability slightly decreases with the increase of lignin content in the blend. The mechanical properties of the blends are worse than that of PVC control. The rheological properties of the blends are little influenced after lignin is treated with polyacrylate, but the mechanical properties, especially toughness, are improved, and the maximum impact strength is 37.7% higher than that of PVC control.