The effect of nano, micro and dual scale filler reinforcement on the morphology, mechanical and barrier properties of polypropylene composites

In the current work the reinforcement effect of nano and micro scale fillers separately and in combination (dual scale filler reinforcement) in polypropylene thermoplastic was investigated. The composites was prepared using counter rotating twin screw extruder at a screw speed of 100 rpm and the set temperature profile varying from 150 to 210 degrees C. The morphological investigations performed by Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) revealed the uniform distribution and dispersion of fillers within the matrix. The tensile strength and modulus obtained was notable at 2 wt % of nanosilica amongst the nanocomposites, whereas in the dual scale filler reinforced composite 4 wt % of nanosilica content displayed the enhanced tensile and barrier properties. The hybrid composite incorporated with 4 wt% of nanosilica and 15 wt% of glass fiber offered higher restrictions to the solvent flow and is evinced with least permeability and diffusivity parameters. (c) 2020 Elsevier Ltd. Selection and peer-review under responsibility of the scientific committee of the International Conference on Advances in Materials and Manufacturing Applications.

Automated summary

The study investigated the reinforcement effect of nano and micro scale fillers separately and in combination in polypropylene thermoplastic. Results showed that 2 wt % of nanosilica exhibited notable tensile strength and modulus, while 4 wt % of nanosilica in dual scale filler reinforced composite displayed enhanced properties. The hybrid composite with 4 wt % of nanosilica and 15 wt % of glass fiber offered higher restrictions to solvent flow and had the least permeability and diffusivity parameters.