Studies on Properties of Polypropylene Filled Sebs/Mica/Silica Blends (Foamed/Unfoamed) For Automotive Application

ABSTRACT The purpose of this work is to compare the effects of different types of filler (silica, mica) loadings and elastomeric content on interfacial properties, morphology and mechanical properties of polypropylene blends modified by 5, 10, 15, and 20 Vol % of poly (styrene-b-ethylene-co-butylene-b-styrene) SEBS added to the total blend volume. We considered the effect of foamed and informed blends properties to understand how the changes occur between adhesion, the filler and the matrix. The blends samples were homogenized in a twin screw extruder. The compatibility of PP and fillers focused on this study and further the foaming nature. The morphology of ternary polymer blends revealed by light and scanning electron microscope was compared with morphology predicted models based on interfacial properties. The results indicated that the general morphology of blends systems was determined primarily by interfacial properties, whereas the spherulitic morphology of the polypropylene matrix was a result of two competing effects: nucleation effect of filler and solidification effect of elastomer. Tensile and impact strength properties were mainly influenced by combining competitive effects of stiff filler and tough SEBS elastomer. Spherulitic morphology of the polypropylene matrix might have affected some mechanical properties additionally.