Energy absorption in blends of polycarbonate with ABS and SAN

Polycarbonate and its bends with ABS and SAN were tested to study the energy absorbing properties and the deformation mechanism. In tension and impact tests, these blends were found to possess a high energy absorbing capability, high yield strength and large rupture elongation. ABS and SAN particles in the blends deform in ductile manner to an elongation of more than 100% under a tensile stress. In an elongation test of ABS under a hydraulic pressure of 90 x 10 super(5) N m super(-2), the transformation from crazing to a cold-drawing mechanism was found to occur. The large elongation of ABS and SAN in the blends is attributed to the cold drawing which occurs under the influence of the pressure acting on the dispersed ABS and SAN, caused by the difference between the elastic moduli of the dispersoid and the matrix.