Laminar blends of high density polyethylene and polyamide-6, with only small amounts (up to 17 vol.%) of the barrier component (polyamide-6), produce significant reduction (up to 50 times) in hydrocarbon permeability of extruded ribbons. Such barrier properties approach the range observed with co-extruded multi-layer films. The substantial improvement in barrier behaviour is accompanied by good mechanical properties; this is achieved through optimization of the maleation level of high density polyethylene and controlling the processing temperature to have similar melt viscosities of the blend components.
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