Mechanical behavior of fibers and films based on PP/quartz composites

E. PÉREZ; C.J. PÉREZ; C. BERNAL; A. MAFFEZZOLI

POLYMER COMPOSITES

JOHN WILEY & SONS INC

Lugar: New York; Año: 2017 vol. 38 p. 1631 - 1639

0272-8397

In this work, films and fibers of Polypropylene based composites reinforced with quartz were investigated. The materials were processed in a twin screw extruder with filler contents of 1, 2.5, 5 wt.%. Morphology, thermal properties and mechanical behavior of these materials were also studied. A homogeneous filler dispersion and particle alignment in the extrusion direction was detected. Thermograms displayed a marginal nucleating effect of quartz particle. Uniaxial tensile tests indicated a high ductility level and strain hardening for the composites processed as films (in the extrusion direction). Single fiber tests displayed improved tensile properties compared to the same materials produced as films. Quasi-static fracture test showed a completely ductile behavior for the films in the extrusion direction. In addition, fracture toughness was increased with the filler content.