Influence of Compatibilizer on Mechanical Properties of PP/Cellulose Composites

Abstract

The influences of compatibilizer on mechanical properties of polypropylene (PP)/cellulose composites were investigated, comparing to PP/talc and PP/CaCO3 composites. The maleated polypropylene (PP-MAH) was used as compatibilizer. Dynamic mechanical analysis showed the interaction between the cellulose and PP-MAH was smallest among the cellulose, talc and CaCO3. According to scanning electron microscopy, the interfacial adhesion between PP and these fillers was improved by an incorporation of the PP-MAH. The tensile strength of the PP/filler composites was increased by the incorporation of the PP-MAH. The effect of the PP-MAH on tensile strength for cellulose is highest among for these three kinds of fillers. On the other hand, modulus of the PP/filler composites was hardly influenced by the incorporation of the PP-MAH. Impact strength of PP/talc and PP/CaCO3 composites was decreased by the incorporation of the PP-MAH. However, that of PP/cellulose composite was not influenced with the incorporation of the PP-MAH. These results indicated that the cellulose can be used as reinforcing filler for tensile strength, especially at the presence of compatibilizer.