Effect of Bottom Ash Treatment and Process Variables on the Strength of Polypropylene Composites

Abstract

In this study, the processes and the treatments of the particles and the variables of making process of the composite have been observed. This research aims to obtain the great mechanical properties of the composite without adding chemical or coupling agent in order to achieve a low cost production. Bottom ash particles as reinforcement have been processed by natural treatment, namely they have been cleaned and dried on certain conditions. The size of the bottom ash particle, the holding time and the stirring process have been varied. The obtained bottom ash has been able to reinforce the polypropylene matrix composite and it can increase the strength of the composite more than a net polypropylene. The shape, the size and the surface condition of the particle should be considered. Likewise, the holding time and the mixing process have provided the effect on the composite strength. The values of tensile and bending strength have increased to 49.4 MPa and 103.6 MPa respectively, at the 250-300 mesh of particle size. The process method should be developed in order to improve the particles state and the polypropylene ability that can increase some mechanical properties.