Autori: C.Sergi, F.Sbardella, M.Lilli, J.Tirillò, A. Calzolari, F.Sarasin
Rivista: Molecules
Anno di Pubblicazione: 2020
Volume: 25
Pagine: 2-18
Abstract:
This study deals with the development and optimization of hybrid composites integrating microcrystalline cellulose and short basalt fibres in a polypropylene (PP) matrix to maximize the composite properties. To this aim, the effects of two different coupling agents endowed with maleic anhydride (MA-g-PP) and acrylic acid (AA-g-PP) functionalities on the composite properties were investigated as a function of their amount. Tensile, flexural, impact and heat deflection temperature tests highlighted the lower reactivity and effectiveness of AA-g-PP, regardless of reinforcement type. Hybrid formulations with basalt/cellulose (15/15) and with 5 wt% of MA-g-PP displayed a remarkable increase in tensile strength and modulus, flexural strength and modulus, and notched Charpy impact strength of 45 % and 284 %, 97 % and 263 %, 13 % in comparison with neat PP, respectively. At the same time the thermo-mechanical stability was enhanced by 65 % compared to neat PP. The results of this study, if compared with the ones available in literature, reveal the ability of such combination of reinforcements to provide materials suitable for automotive applications with environmental benefits.