Abstract: In this research the mechanical and sorption properties of purified Anacardium Occidentale L. exudate and poly(vinyl chloride) blends were investigated. The purified Cashew Gum PCG and PVC were compounded through melt blending technique followed by compression moulding on a Carver Laboratory Press set at 150°C. The blended samples were then subjected to tensile, hardness, impact and sorption tests. The results of the mechanical tests indicate a general decrease in Young's modulus, tensile strength and percentage elongation with increasing composition of the purified exudate in the blended samples. There was an improvement in hardness properties with increase in exudate composition with a maximum value of 69.3 HRF for the composition 40%PVC/60%PCG. For the Charpy impact tests, the maximum and minimum values recorded were 10227.27Jm-2 and 6818.18Jm-2 respectively. The absorption test results indicate swelling in aqueous media which increases as the composition of PCG increases. This swelling behaviour of the blended samples in aqueous media indicate their susceptibility to hydrolytic degradation, and this can serve as a means of controlling environmental pollution due to discarded plastic materials.Abstract: In this research the mechanical and sorption properties of purified Anacardium Occidentale L. exudate and poly(vinyl chloride) blends were investigated. The purified Cashew Gum PCG and PVC were compounded through melt blending technique followed by compression moulding on a Carver Laboratory Press set at 150°C. The blended samples were then subject...Show More
