A Comparative Study on Recycled Glass Fibers and Milled Glass Fibers as Reinforcement Fibers in Polypropylene

Abstract

Fibers reinforced polymers have received considerable attention from industry in recent years. Due to the sharp resources recovery, and the global demand for fiber materials, there has been growing interest in the use of the recycled glass fibers (RGF) as an alternative. This work focuses on comparing the RGF from nonmetals of waste printed circuit boards (PCBs) and virgin milled glass fibers (MGF) as reinforcement fibers in polypropylene (PP). The results show that toughness, strength, and rigidity of the composites can be improved simultaneously by the addition the RGF into PP. Meanwhile, the effect of the RGF on PP matrix is slightly higher than that of the MGF. The morphology, evaluated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), indicates uniform dispersion of both types of the fibers in the PP matrix. Based on comprehensive consideration of the mechanical properties, thermal properties, economy and environment, the RGF could replace traditional MGF for producing PP plastic products and can bring a good economic benefit to enterprises. This would develop a new technique for meeting the demand of the glass fiber materials and resolving the environmental pollution.