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

Polypropylene (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).

Automated summary

Polypropylene (PP)/talc composites are widely used in various industries, but the demand for more efficient and environmentally friendly materials is increasing, leading to the exploration of new reinforcements. Graphene nanoplates (GNP) offer a good alternative due to their ability to enhance properties and optimize processes. This study investigated the effects of adding different weight percentages of GNP to PP/talc composites and found that it led to improvements in various properties such as flow behavior, mechanical strength, and electrical conductivity.