Optimization of aramid powder reinforced PP/EPDM blends

Abstract

The effect of twaron powder on the tensile behavior and abrasion resistance of polypropylene (PP) and an ethylene-propylene diene terpolymer (EPDM) and their blends has been investigated by means of an experimental design. The stiffness and strength of the composites with EPDM as continuous phase hardly varies with the addition of twaron powder, however, at high percentages of PP (above 50%) in the matrix, these properties decrease as powder content increases. In all cases the elongation at fracture decreases in the presence of the powder. A maximum in the abrasion resistance is observed in the 14% twaron powder filled polypropylene composite. From the results and the graphs of the response surfaces a better affinity between the twaron powder and the EPDM can be suggested. It can be also deduced that as twaron content in the composite increases, the phase inversion in the polymer matrix takes place at lower PP percentages. A good correlation between mechanical characteristics and morphological observations has been observed.