Increasing the rate of production is an easy way to increase the linear strength of an extrudate.

Question:

We are blending 3 different types of PE as well as adding rubber to produce a decorative ribbon. Should we also add a grade of PP to increase the product strength?

My Response:

Blending more materials would only weaken the material. When you blend different grades of semi-crystalline polymers, you will decrease the overall strength of the polymer. This occurs because the different grades will actually hinder the semi-crystallinity of the primary material. If you increase the amount of the primary material in your blend, you will likely increase the strength of your final extrudate.

More strength would also come from faster production as you will increase the orientation in your extrudate.