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Effect of reinforcement type on the mechanical properties of polypropylene composites
Author(s) -
Richardson George C.,
Sauer John A.
Publication year - 1976
Publication title -
polymer engineering and science
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.503
H-Index - 111
eISSN - 1548-2634
pISSN - 0032-3888
DOI - 10.1002/pen.760160406
Subject(s) - materials science , composite material , polypropylene , ultimate tensile strength , whiskers , ductility (earth science) , silicon carbide , elastic modulus , ceramic , filler (materials) , modulus , creep
The possible reinforcing effects of six different types of filler particles on composites based on the thermoplastic polypropylene have been examined. It is found that significant increases in elastic modulus and tensile strength can be obtained by addition of ≥ 10 percent by volume of glass fibers. Ceramic whiskers, based on alumina and silicon carbide, also lead to increases in modulus but to decreases in strength and ductility. Additional measurements were made with composites prepared from two sizes of spherical glass beads and from carbon spheres. For the glass beads, an increase in modulus was obtained but strength and elongation to fracture decreased. Carbon spheres were ineffective as a reinforcing agent. The possible effects of nonuniform mixing, of size and shape of filler particles, and of surface coatings are discussed.