Third phase formation resistance

The CSSX solvent exhibits good resistance to third-phase formation. Tests have indicated that the temperature at which the third phase appears decreases rapidly as BOBCalixC6 concentration decreases and as Cs-7SB concentration increases [49], The current CSSX solvent was formulated in part to increase resistance to third-phase formation and accordingly has a lower BOBCalixC6 concentration and a higher Cs-7SB concentration than previous formulations [37,50,51], From the reported results, it may be expected that a third phase would not form above 10 °C when the current CSSX solvent is contacted with the SRS average waste composition at its maximum potassium... 

The reduction of the interfacial tension in the melt results in the formation of lower-diameter particles as phase separation occurs. These are also stabilized by the compatibilizer and resist growth during subsequent thermal treatment such as annealing. Thirdly, the enhanced interfacial adhesion results in mechanical continuity such as stress transfer between the phases. This is a fundamental requirement for a useful polymer blend. 

---