Diffusion and Sorption Properties of Benzene through Linear Low Density Polyethlene/Polypropylene Blends

Abstract

The transport behavior of benzene into Linear Low Density Polyethylene (LLDPE) and Polypropylene (PP) blends at 35^oC, 55^oC, and 75^oC were investigated using the gravimetric test method. The LLDPE/PP blend compositions (50/50, 60/40/, and 70/30) used was melt-blended using an injection moulding machine with operating speed 100 turns/min, temperature of 170^oC. The diffusion, solubility and permeation coefficient investigated increased with increase in temperature. The transport mechanism of benzene through LLDPE/PP blend compositions was non Fickian. Activation energy examined increased with increase in temperature. The values of enthalpy of absorption calculated were positive, showing that the sorption is dominated by Henry’s mode with an endothermic contribution.