Phase Structure and Mechanical Properties of PP/EPR/CaCO3 Nanocomposites: Effect of Particle's Size and Treatment

Calcium carbonate (CaCO3) reinforced polypropylene/ethylene propylene rubber (PP/EPR) copolymer composites for automotive use were developed by means of extrusion and injection molding process. Three kinds of CaCO3 (stearic acid treated and untreated) nanoparticles and microparticles were used as fillers. The influence of stearic acid, particle size, and filler content on the state distribution and morphology were investigated by SEM and rheological measurements. Two different morphologies were observed: EPR and CaCO3 dispersed in the PP matrix and a core shell structure, depending on the interactions between EPR and CaCO3. Toughening mechanisms and mechanical properties of the different systems were investigated. Significant improvement in tensile modulus is observed in all composites, depending on filler content. Elongation and notched impact strength were drastically decreased, especially for composites with nano CaCO3. Better impact properties were obtained with low content of treated particles, showing the importance of filler treatment. (C) 2015 Society of Plastics Engineers