A novel technique for preparing of maleic anhydride grafted polyolefins

A novel mechanochemical method of preparation of maleic anhydride grafted polypropylene (MAPP) was developed. The preparation was performed by ball milling of polypropylene (PP) powder, maleic anhydride (MA), and peroxide initiator in balls-containing jars with a planetary ball mill for a certain time. Compared with the conventional melt-mixing method, MAPP obtained through ball-milling technique reveals higher graft degree, particularly alleviated degradation of PP, or even increased molecular mass of the resulting MAPP. Maleic anhydride grafted polyethylene (MAPE) was obtained via this technique, and the optimization of the technique is in progress. The novel technique offers new opportunities in modification of polyolefins, which has also the advantages of solventless, lower process temperature, energy efficient, low cost, and simple running process. Furthermore, it is very easy to obtain purified products.