Enhanced rheological properties and heat resistance of poly (propylene carbonate) composites with carbon fiber

Sustainable composites of poly (propylene carbonate) (PPC) and carbon fiber (CF) were prepared by melt mixing. Scanning electron microscopy observation revealed that when the CF content was less than 20 wt%, CF was uniformly dispersed in the PPC matrix. Incorporation of CF greatly improved the rheological properties of PPC/CF composites. Once the CF content was increased to 20 wt%, a percolation network structure composed of CF was formed, causing the composite to exhibit a solid-like behavior. Furthermore, CF could serve as an excellent reinforcing agent for PPC, characterizing that the storage modulus of the composite with 20 wt% CF was increased by 333% and 2367% at 20 degrees C and 50 degrees C, respectively. Finally, the addition of CF could increase the glass transition temperature and vicat softening temperature of PPC/CF composites, thereby improving their heat resistance.