Performance of Hybrid Reinforcements in PVC Composites: Part I—Use of Surface-Modified Mica and Wood Pulp as Reinforcements

Abstract

Abstract In the present study, the hybird behavior of surfacetreated mica and hardwood chemithermomechanical pulp (CTMP) in PVC composites was investigated. In order to improve the compatibility of wood fibers with PVC and surface-coated mica, CTMP was subjected to different surface modifications by pretreating the fibers with maleic anhydride (MA), a mixture of MA and Na-silicate, and with an inocyanate (PMPPIC). The effect exerted by the concentration of reinforcements, composition of hybrid as well as the treatment of CTMP, on the mechanical properties of the hybrid composites were evaluated. In general, these properties improved compared to those of uncoated CTMP/mica-filled composites. Moreover, PMPPIC treatment renked best followed by MA — and MA + silicat treatments. The optimal concentrations of reinforcements and their compositions, which provided superior properties, varied according to the nature of the trestment of CTMP and of the individual mechanical properties themselves.