The Influence of MAPP and MAPE Compatibilizers on Physical and Mechanical Properties of 3D Printing Filament Made of Wood Fiber/Recycled Polypropylene

Abstract

This study aims to develop 3D printing filament composites that support sustainability and waste reduction goals by utilizing wood waste and recycled polypropylene. This study evaluated the effect of Maleic Anhydride Polyethylene (MAPE) and Maleic Anhydride Polypropylene (MAPP) compatibilizers on the mechanical properties of the filament. The study found that r-WoPPc filament with MAPP and MAPE had higher tensile strength compared to r-WoPPc with significant increments of 13% and 74%, respectively, compared to v-WoPPc. The flexural strength of r-WoPPc increased by 18% and 60% after adding optimum loading MAPP and MAPE, respectively. The finding also reveals a significant enhancement in the tensile and flexural strength of the composite, proportional to the increase in MAPP percentage. In contrast, as the MAPE content increases, the tensile strength and flexural strength of the r-WoPPc experience a gradual decrease. Consequently, the addition of MAPP and MAPE improved the interfacial adhesion between wood and polypropylene, as revealed by the surface morphology of the r-WoPPc tensile fractured surface. Moreover, the reduced water absorption in r-WoPPc is attributed to the enhanced interfacial adhesion between wood fibers and the r-PP matrix, associated with improved tensile and flexural strength. The highest tensile strength of r-WoPPc with MAPP absorbs 14% water, while the lowest tensile strength absorbs 26%. Likewise, the highest tensile strength of r-WoPPc with MAPE absorbs only 0.8% water, compared to the lowest strength, which absorbs 2% water. This study demonstrated the potential for producing 3D printing filament from recycled polypropylene and wood waste, which benefits sustainability.