The following abstracts are examples of projects that have been completed by the Center. The papers were presented at the Society of Plastics Engineers Annual Technical Conference in Nashville, TN (ANTEC 2003).This work is a representation of our capabilities.

If you are interested in material evaluation or process studies, contact our PMC Project Manager.

MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF ROTATIONALLY MOLDED LAMINATES OF LLDPE AND FOAMED LLDPE

by:
Elizabeth A. Webster and Nathan Weaver
Pennsylvania College of Technology
One College Avenue
Williamsport, PA 17701

Abstract

Part weight of plastic articles is reduced by use of foamed material or laminates that include a foamed layer. Traditionally rotationally molded parts may be filled with foam in a post-molding operation. The foam may, or may not, be the same material as the outer skin.  It may, or may not, enhance properties. This paper describes the use of a two-step rotational molding process in which a LLDPE outer skin is molded followed by molding LLDPE with a blowing agent by opening a drop box containing the compound. Various ratios of skin-to-foam thickness were produced. ARM impact, tensile and flexural testing compare various ratios of laminate thickness. Results are compared to predictions from a laminate model. 

Rotational Molding of Micropelletized Polypropylene-Based Copolymers

by:
Stanley K. Baczek, Ph.D., Pennsylvania College of Technology
Michael E. Starsinic, Ph.D., Rotational Molding Center of Excellence,
Pennsylvania College of Technology

Abstract
Deficiencies in grinding performance of polypropylene homo- and copolymers have restricted their use for rotationally molded articles. This paper will demonstrate that micropelletization overcomes these deficiencies, allowing these resins to be processed into rotationally molded articles. Four different propylene-based copolymers were molded under varying conditions.  Low temperature impact strengths, tensile and flex properties and oxidative induction times were determined. Results will be compared to commercial LLDPE products.