I. P. Mahendra, B. Wirjosentono, Tamrin, H. Ismail, J. A. Mendez, and V. Causin made a breakthrough in this endeavor. Their research, which was conducted with different backgrounds, found promising results. The research pattern focused on diving into the world of PP blends, with a particular focus on improving its properties through compatibilization. Blending PP with other polymeric materials not only expanded its scope but also addressed its susceptibility to oxidative stress. Their hard work found a bright spot by using the precise method of compatibilization. 
 

Mahendra, a chemist at the Universitas Sumatera Utara (USU), explained that the research journey began with a common challenge: the lack of adhesion between PP and cyclic natural rubber (CNR). When these materials meet, their inability to mix hampers their potential applications. At that point, compatibilizers emerged as the guiding answer in this narrative, offering a solution to bridge the gap between these seemingly incompatible materials.
 

“We chose CNR and PP as the base materials. We started the mixing process by using polymers grafted with maleic anhydride, including POLYBOND 3002 and 3200 and CNR-g-MA as the compatibilizer. Using Brabender’s in-house mixer, we concocted a blend that will undergo rigorous mechanical properties testing following standards,” Mahendra said. 
 

Mahendra admits that the integration of 1 wt.% of CNR-g-MA showed the highest mechanical properties, signifying a significant improvement. The thermal stability of the blend was significantly improved with the integration of the polymer grafted with maleic anhydride (MA). This expands the potential applications of these blends and strengthens their reliability under various conditions.
 

Researchers have revealed a way to improve the mechanical properties and thermal stability of PP/CNR blends. The tremendous impact opens up broader possibilities for blending incompatible materials to produce valuable materials. The power of compatibilizers has reshaped the landscape of polymer blends. 
 

This discovery brings us closer to a world where compatibility knows no bounds and where the potential of polymer blends can break down barriers. Material formation innovation has also become an exciting science. This study provides insight into the transformative potential of compatibilizers and confirms the importance of collaborative research in materials science.