Characterization and properties of PP/NBR/EFB composites with PPMAH compatibilizer

Abstract

The Empty fruit bunch (EFB) has become the solid waste problem in Malaysia’s agricultural sector abundantly. Besides, poor interfacial adhesion between natural reinforcing filler and polymer mater is the most vital issue associate with composted. In this research, EFB powder has been used as reinforcement for polypropylene (PP) and acrylonitrile butadiene rubber (NBR) matrices. The surface modification using Maleic graft polypropylene (PPMAH) was carried out to modify the fibre properties. The mechanical and thermal properties of PP/NBR/EFB composites as well as PPMAH compatibilizer on EFB filler performance on PP/NBR/EFB composite were investigated. The composite were prepared by using heated two roll mill at temperature of 180 oC with speed 15 rmp for 11 minute and mixed sample were then compressed using a hot press at same temperature to form 1mm sheet sample composite. Generally, the result obtained indicated that composite PPMAH compatibilizer EFB showed a better tensile strength, Young Modulus , degradation temperature , thermal stability and crystallinity than composite with uncompatibilizer EFB . Micrographs of tensile fractured surface showed that composite with PPMAH compatibilizer EFB have good attachment of EFB filler on matrix. FTIR result showed the presence of PPMAH compatibilizer with Acetic anhydride due to the improved intensity of OH group and the followed by using chemical bonding between C-O-C and EFB filler, PPMAH compatibilizer following by using acetic anhydride PP/NBR/EFB composite improved the tensile properties and thermal properties which can be proven and supported by using morphology studies and FTIR analysis.