Effect of Nanoclay and Oxidized Polypropylene in Solution phase as A Compatibilizer on the Physical and Mechanical Properties of Wood Fiber/Polypropylene Composite

Utilization of the new compatibilizers to improve matrix/filler interface adhesion and also, nanoparticles to improve the properties of WPC products have always been of interest to researchers. In this study, the effect of oxidized polypropylene in solution phase as a comptibilizer and nanoclay particles on the physical and mechanical properties of wood fiber reinforced polypropylene composite was studied. Initially, polypropylene (in solution phase) was oxidized over a period of time for 4 hours. After mixing WF, PP (50 wt %), oxidized PP (3 wt %), and nanoclay particles (0, 2, 3 wt %) in a brabander, the produced pallets formed into a mat using a 150 × 150 mm2 forming frame. The thickness of the final samples is 2 mm. Physical and mechanical properties of the specimens, including Tensile and flexural strength, modulus of elasticity and rapture, Impact Resistance, water absorption and thickness swelling were conducted according to ASTM. The results showed all mechanical and physical properties of the composite were improved by using the comptibilizer. Moreover, in the presence of nanoclay particles, the physical and mechanical properties, excluding impact strength were improved. nanoclay particles distribution and morphology of composites were studied with x-ray diffraction and electron microscopy. It revealed that the distribution of the nano particles in the polymeric matrix was formed in an intercalation structure.