Study of the Effect of Compatibility Agents in the Incorporation of Rice Hull Ash in Polypropylene Compounds: Mechanical Properties

Abstract

The present work aimed at incorporating the rice hull ash (RHA) into a polypropylene polymer matrix. The methodology applied was the case study, whereby the rice hull, residue generated during the grain extraction, was used in the present study. The samples were prepared with the addition of a coupling agent (silane) with 10% by mass in relation to the filler, to improve the characteristics of the ash/ matrix interface. The tensile test results showed that the modulus of elasticity increased proportionally to the addition of the RHA contents, promoting an increase in the material stiffness. The micrographs showed excellent adhesion between the RHA particles and the polymer matrix. proving the coupling, because there was a good wettability array load due to the use of the coupling agent. The results show the feasibility of use of CCA in the composite with PP.