Mechanical Properties and Heat Resistance of Polypropylene/Polyamide6 Composites Containing Small Amounts of Cellulose Nanofibers

Abstract

This study examines the mechanical properties and heat resistance of polypropylene (PP) /polyamide6 (PA6) composites containing small amounts of cellulose nanofibers (CNFs). Powdered CNFs with a length of 10μm or above, and diameters of 20nm were used. Using twin-screw extruder operating at 150rpm and 200°C, CNF/PP/PA6/MAPP composites were prepared by using melt-kneading. To form good interface between CNFs and PP, maleic acid polypropylene (MAPP) was filled in the matrix of composites. Using the manufactured composites, tensile, bending and Charpy impact tests, and deflection temperature measurements were performed. As a result of these tests, Young’s modulus and Charpy impact strength of 1wt%CNF/PP/PA6/MAPP composites were higher than those of PP/PA6/MAPP composites when PA6 weight fraction was changed from 5 to 20wt%. Moreover, the deflection temperature of 1wt%CNF/PP/PA6/MAPP composites was higher than that of PP/PA6/MAPP composites. The addition of 1wt%CNF improved synergetic effect of PA6 and PP.