Compatibilization of Polyolefin Blends through Acid-Base Interactions

Polyolefins are ubiquitous in consumer products but are notoriously difficult to recycle due to the inherent incompatibility of their common varieties. Current approaches to addressing this challenge often involve relatively complex syntheses or may compromise the properties of the parent materials. Here, a method is developed to compatibilize mixed polyolefins via acid-base interactions. With a single-step photocatalytic process, acid or base functionality can be readily installed onto polyolefins. The combination of acid- and base-modified polyolefins functions as a compatibilizers. Incorporating them into polyolefin blends results in excellent mechanical strength, with up to a 96-fold increase in ductility (from 22% to 2110%). Importantly, compatibilization can be readily achieved on postconsumer polyolefin mixtures. Furthermore, direct functionalization and compatibilization of polyolefin blends is achieved.