Synthesis and Properties of Poly (n-Octyl Acrylate) with Uniform Polystyrene Grafts

Poly (n-octyl acrylate) with uniform polystyrene grafts (POA-g-PS) was obtained by radical copolymerization of n-octyl acrylate (OA) with PS macromer, in solution. The reactivity ratio and effects of copolymerization conditions on grafting efficiency were studied. The crude products were purified by extraction with cyclohexane and n-butanol successively. POA-g-PS exhibited a very good compatibUizing effect on the acrylic rubber/polystyrene blends. 2%-3% of the graft copolymer was enough for enhancing the tensile strength of the blends. DSC and SEM demonstrated the enhancement of compatibility in the presence of the graft copolymer.