Mechanical characterization of polypropylene-wood flour composites

• Published in: Journal of applied polymer science Vol. 88; no. 6; pp. 1420 - 1428
• Main Authors: Nuñez, Adrián J., Sturm, Pablo C., Kenny, José M., Aranguren, M. I., Marcovich, Norma E., Reboredo, María M.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: New York Wiley Subscription Services, Inc., A Wiley Company 09.05.2003; Wiley
• Subjects: Applied sciences; compatibilization; Composites; Exact sciences and technology; Forms of application and semi-finished materials; mechanical properties; Polymer industry, paints, wood; Technology of polymers; Property composition relationship; Propylene polymer; Creep test; Mechanical properties; compatibilization; Dispersion reinforced material; Tensile property; Experimental study; Functional polymer; Esterification; Composite material; Surface treatment; Polymer filler interaction; Bending strength; composites; Impact strength; 2,5-Furandione(2,5-dihydro)
• ISSN: 0021-8995; 1097-4628
• DOI: 10.1002/app.11738

The mechanical performance of different wood flour/polypropylene (PP) composites with interface modifications was compared. Wood flour was incorporated into the matrix after esterification with maleic anhydride (MAN) or without any modification but with the addition of a compatibilizing agent [maleic anhydride–polypropylene copolymer (PPMAN)] to modify the polymer–filler interaction. Composites were prepared by injection molding with different concentrations of wood flour. Mechanical properties (except Young's modulus) were not improved either by the wood flour chemical modification or by the use of PPMAN. However, both compatibilization methods were successful in improving the dispersion of the wood flour in the PP matrix. Creep behavior of composite samples was improved by the addition of PPMAN, whereas the composites prepared from MAN‐treated wood flour showed larger deformations than composites made with untreated particles. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 88: 1420–1428, 2003