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Influence of maleic anhydride as a coupling agent on the performance of wood fiber‐polystyrene composites
Author(s) -
Maldas D.,
Kokta B. V.
Publication year - 1991
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.760311810
Subject(s) - materials science , maleic anhydride , composite material , polystyrene , isocyanate , cellulose fiber , benzoyl peroxide , fiber , polymer , polyurethane , monomer , copolymer
Abstract The lack of polar groups in thermoplastics (e.g., in polystyrene) provides low adhesion with cellulosic fibers. To improve compatibility between reinforcement and matrix, maleic anhydride (MA) was selected as a coupling agent for wood fiber‐filled polystyrene composites. In general, the mechanical properties improved along with increased concentrations of MA, initiator (e.g., benzoyl peroxide) and wood fiber up to a certain limit and then decreased. The concentrations of MA and fiber which produced maximum improvements in the mechanical properties varied according to wood species, pulping techniques and type of polystyrene. Moreover, properties were further enhanced when another coupling agent (e.g., isocyanate) was used in addition to the MA.