Fabrication, mechanical properties and flammability of polypropylene/MoS2 composites

Abstract

Molybdenum disulphide (MoS2) filled polypropylene (PP) composites were prepared using the horizontal ball milling machine followed by injection moulding. The content of MoS2 was varied from 0 to 7.12 vol.%. Scanning electron microscopy showed good dispersion and adhesion of MoS2 with the PP matrix. Experimental density of the composites prepared by horizontal ball milling was close to the theoretical density. Impact energy and Impact toughness were increased by 62.50% to pure PP matrix up to 4.28 vol% MoS2, and then it decreases as it reaches to 7.12 vol% of MoS2. It was found that the addition of 4.28 vol% MoS2 into PP matrix could improve the tensile strength by 11%. Limiting oxygen Index value increases up to 21.3% from 18% (pure PP) which indicates that, composites are fire resistant for their application.