SEM observations
The blends of both rubbers with PH at different volume
fractions are depicted in Figures 11 and 12.
The SEM micrographs show dispersion of the PHphase is almost spherical and indicates a good adhesion
with the matrix, because no interfacial
debonding is observed in the SEM micrographs of
the fractured surfaces. However, it can be shown
that the PH particles tend to form agglomeration
even at low volume fraction of PH. This observation
is in complete agreement with the higher value of
kE mentioned earlier in the mechanical properties of
the blends. It is also seen that the matrix-dispersed
type of microstructure is dominant, although a compact
dispersed morphology is observed at high
volume fraction of PH.