Theoretical and experimental investigation of the particle size distribution and magnetic properties of the PP + FE3O4 nanocomposites

A detailed study of the dispersion of magnetite (Fe3O4) nanoparticles in the polypropylene (PP) matrix, the degree of coagulation, and the dependence of magnetic properties of PP + Fe3O4 nanocomposites on the size of nanoparticles is reported. The size distribution of nanoparticles in polymer matrix and morphology of the nanocomposites were studied by the means of scanning electron microscope (JEOL JSM-7600 F) and atomic force microscopy (NT-MDT). It was found that when the Fe3O4 nanoparticles are introduced into the PP matrix, their coagulation takes place. The increase in the size of the Fe3O4 nanoparticles depends on their volume content in the polymer matrix, the viscosity of polymer, mixing time, and so on. The magnetic properties of PP + Fe3O4 nanocomposites were experimentally and theoretically studied. It was found that the magnetic hysteresis parameters of the nanocomposites directly depend on the size and concentration of the Fe3O4 nanoparticles in the matrix. Theoretical calculations were compared with experimental results obtained from M(H) measurements. Discrepancy between theoretical and experimental magnetic values have been explained.