Abstract: A noval blue color masterbatch was prepared using a blend of PE-LD and high melt flow rate PE-LLD as the matrix containing no dispersant. The rheological, coloring and dispersion properties of the masterbatch were investigated, which was compared with the traditional masterbatch containing a low molecular weight polyethylene wax as a dispersant. It was found that the PE-LLD/PE-LD matrix with no dispersant could bear up to 30 % of blue pigment keeping good mechanical and coloring, and processing properties. However, when the content of pigment was 40 % or higher, neither novel nor traditional masterbatch could maintain a satisfactory performance.

Key words: linear low-density polyethylene, color masterbatch, melt flow rate, pigment, property