Characterization and properties of polypropylene/recycled acrylonitrile butadiene rubber/palm kernel shell composites

Abstract

Thermoplastic elastomer composites was developed by using polypropylene (PP) / recycled acrylonitrile butadiene rubber (NBRr) filled by palm kernel shell (PKS). All test samples were prepared by using heated two roll mill machine at temperature of 180 °C at a speed of 15 rpm with the total mixing time of 9 minutes. All the compound samples were shaped using compression moulding at temperature of 180 °C and followed by cool pressing for total time of 12 minutes. The particle sizes of the PKS and NBRr used in this study were 100-200 μm. The effect of NBRr loading and PKS loading were prepared and investigated as control series. The studies of composites properties were aimed to investigations of the effects of compatibilizer such as polypropylene maleic anhydride (PPMAH) and trans-polyoctylene rubber (TOR) and also ɤ-MPS as a coupling agent. The mechanical properties, morphological characterization, FTIR analysis, thermal properties, water absorption and swelling behaviour were investigated. Better properties such as tensile, thermal stability, crystallinity, water absorption and swelling behaviour of composites showed by PPMAH compared with TOR compatibilization. The treatment modification of PKS filler by using ɤ-MPS have improved the chemical compatibility, interfacial adhesion and stress distribution between PKS filler and PP/NBRr matrix which results in better properties.