The Effect of Filler Loading and Maleated Polypropylene on Properties of Rubberwood Filled Polypropylene/Natural Rubber Composites

Polypropylene (PP)/natural rubber (NR) composites were prepared by incorporating rubberwood at different loadings into PP/NR matrix using a Brabender plasticorder at a temperature of 180°C and a rotor speed of 50 rpm for 10 minutes. A compatibilizer, E-43 (maleated polypropylene) was used to improve the mechanical properties of the composites. Incorporation of rubberwood into PP/NR matrix increases the Young modulus, flexural modulus and water absorption but reduces the tensile strength and elongation at break. However, the presence of E-43 in the blends has improved the above properties except elongation at break and water absorption. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) studies indicate that the presence of E-43 has also improved filler matrix interaction.