Effect of oxidized polypropylene as a new compatibilizer on the water absorption and mechanical properties of wood flour–polypropylene composites

Abstract

AbstractThe effect of oxidized polypropylene (OPP) as new compatibilizer on the water absorption and mechanical properties of wood flour–polypropylene (PP) composites were studied and compared with maleic anhydride grafted polypropylene (MAPP). The oxidation of PP was performed in the molten state in the presence of air. Wood flour, PP, and the compatibilizers (OPP and MAPP) were mixed in an internal mixer at temperature of 190°C. The amorphous composites removed from the mixer were then pressed into plates that had a nominal thickness of 2 mm and nominal dimensions of 15 × 15 cm2 with a laboratory hydraulic hot press at 190°C. Physical and mechanical tests showed that the wood flour–PP composites with OPP exhibited higher flexural and impact properties but lower water absorption than MAPP. All of the composites with 2% compatibilizers (OPP and MAPP) gave higher flexural and impact properties and lower water absorption compared to those with 4% compatibilizers. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2011