Structure and properties of compatibilized recycled polypropylene/recycled polyamide 12 blends with cellulose fibers addition

This research was aimed to develop engineering thermoplastic composites based on recycled plastics and cellulose fibers in order to provide eco‐friendly sustainable parts that meet certain requirements for automotive industry and to use recycled plastics for economic benefits. The composite networks were prepared using recycled PP, recycled PA12, two different maleic anhydride functionalized polypropylenes (PP‐g‐MA) and cellulose fiber. The loading of cellulose fibers was varied between 5 and 20 wt%. Based on the results of mechanical tests a substantial improvement was detected in terms of tensile and flexural modulus which showed that cellulose fibers could be used for reinforcing of stiffness of recycled polymer blends. It was also noticed that using PP‐g‐MA type of compatibilizers played an important role on the mechanical characteristics of polymer blends. The incorporation of cellulose into the compatibilized PP/PA12 blends resulted in higher storage modulus and shear viscosities than those of neat PP, PA12, and PP/PA12 blends at low frequencies and shear rates, respectively. Phase morphology of polymer blends and cellulose fibers‐filled composites became more fine, uniform, and stable with addition of PP‐g‐MA. Fourier transform infra‐red (FTIR) was used to confirm the interaction observed. It is obvious that cellulose reinforced, compatibilized recycled polymer blends can be a good alternative where better mechanical properties under high temperature are required in the automotive industry. This opportunity will help to reduce the cost and the effects of environmental issues. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:3556–3563, 2018. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers