Effect of chemical solvents on the technological characteristics of hemp fibre/polypropylene composites |
| |
| Authors: | Behzad Kord Milad Tajik Behrouz Malekian |
| |
| Affiliation: | 1. Department of Paper and Packaging Technology, Faculty of Chemistry and Petrochemical Engineering, Standard Research Institute (SRI), Karaj, Iran;2. Member of Young Researchers and Elite Club, Chalous Branch, Islamic Azad University, Iran |
| |
| Abstract: | The effects of different chemical solvents on the technological properties of hemp fibre-reinforced polypropylene composites were evaluated in this experimental work. Composite profiles consisting of hemp fibre and polypropylene at 50% weight ratios, with 2% of coupling agent were fabricated using melt compounding followed by injection moulding. The composite specimens were then immersed in CH3COOH, HNO3, H2SO4, NaOH, NH3, and C6H5NH2 for different time intervals. Then, the weight loss and mechanical strength of samples were measured. Results indicated that the chemical reagents had significant effect on the weight loss of the composites. The weight loss ratio of the control samples was lower than that of those samples exposure to the chemical solvents. The tensile strength and modulus, and impact strength of composite specimens decreased after exposure to the chemical solvents. The highest mechanical reduction was observed in the case of NaOH. SEM micrographs showed that the extent of degradation increased in composites when they are exposed to chemical solvents. |
| |
| Keywords: | Chemical solvents weight loss mechanical strength degradation composites |
|
|
