Polypropylene/talc/graphene nanoplates (GNP) hybrid composites: Effect of GNP content on the thermal, rheological, mechanical, and electrical properties

Abstract

AbstractPolypropylene (PP)/talc composites are used extensively in the automotive, aeronautical, and consumer goods industries; however, the increasing demand for more efficient, safe, and less environmentally impact materials makes it necessary to include new reinforcements. In this way, the use of graphene nanoplates (GNP) is a good alternative because this carbon‐based material allows the achievement of new multifunctional nanocomposites with improved properties and process optimization. In this work, PP/talc (80/20) composites were prepared with the addition of 1, 3, 5, and 7 wt% of GNP using the extrusion process and injection molding. Morphological, thermal, rheological, mechanical, electrical, and electromagnetic characterizations were performed. The addition of GNPs led to a linear reduction in the melt flow index (MFI) of the samples. A rheological percolation was observed in the sample with the addition of 7 wt% of GNP. The addition of 5 and 7 wt% of GNP led to significant increases in elastic modulus and Shore D hardness. The electrical and electromagnetic evaluation showed that the increase of GNP in the compositions contributed to improvements in electrical conductivity and permittivity, resulting in a proportional increment in the total attenuation component (SET).