Effects of Industrial Waste Filler Content and Compatibilizer on the Performance of Thermoplastic Polymer Composites

Haydar U Zuman

Abstract


In this study, we examine the physico-mechanical characteristics of waste filler-thermoplastic polymer composites in relation to the industrial waste filler mixing ratio and compatibilizer concentrations. Three degrees of coupling agent (Epolene E-43) content and four levels of waste filler to thermoplastic polymer mixing ratios were used in the experiment to examine the physical and mechanical characteristics of the composite. As was to be predicted, composite density grew as waste filler content increased, while melt flow index fell. In comparison to control specimens, the inclusion of waste filler somewhat improved the thickness swelling of composites. As the amount of waste filler in the mixture increased, the tensile characteristics of composites dramatically improved. In particular, the tensile modulus increased as the waste filler content increased. Flexural strength and modulus exhibited patterns that were comparable to those of the tensile characteristics. The addition of waste filler reduces the notched and unnotched Izod impact strength. In comparison to control specimens, the addition of the coupling agent (Epolene E-43) significantly improved the tensile and flexural characteristics (without any coupling agent). The tensile and flexural properties of the composites were effectively improved by epolene E-43, which has a high molecular weight. Overall results suggest that industrial waste could be used as a workable filler for thermoplastic polymer composites to provide reinforcement. This study investigates the physico-mechanical properties of waste filler-thermoplastic polymer composites, focusing on the effects of industrial waste filler ratios and compatibilizer concentrations. Results show that increasing waste filler content enhances composite density but decreases melt flow index. Additionally, the inclusion of waste filler improves thickness swelling and enhances tensile and flexural characteristics.

Keywords


Waste material, PP, coupling agent, physical properties, mechanical properties.

References


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DOI: https://doi.org/10.37628/ijan.v9i2.1022

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