| Abstract: | ABSTRACT Tensile and impact properties of talc-filled i-PP/CSM rubber (20 phr, 0.13 vol fraction) blends were studied in the talc concentration range 0–0.149 vol fraction (0–50 phr). The tensile modulus increased whereas the tensile breaking strength and the strain-at-break decreased with increase in the talc concentration. The modulus increase and the strain decrease were due to enhanced mechanical restraint imposed by the talc particles on the polymer blend decreasing its deformability. Formation of stress concentration points explained the decrease in the tensile strength. The Izod impact strength showed a significant decrease with increase in the filler content. Surface treatment of the talc particles with a titanate coupling agent LICA 12 increased the wetting of the talc by the polymer blend, further modifying the strength properties. Scanning electron microscopic studies showed enhanced dispersion of the filler particles sequential to the surface treatment, effecting modifications of the composite strength properties. |
