The influence of compatibilizers on the structure and mechanical properties of lightweight reinforced thermoplastics

Lightweight reinforced thermoplastics (LWRT) have a low density and high rigidity. The application of LWRTs to automotive interiors, such as headliners and instrument panels, is very promising. The porous structure of LWRTs is formed in the process of deconsolidation, so pores may appear between the matrix and fibers that interrupt the transfer of stress and deteriorate the mechanical properties. In this article, maleic anhydride‐grafted polypropylene (PP‐g‐MAH) and glycidyl methacrylate‐grafted polypropylene were selected to study the influence of compatibilizers on the structural and mechanical properties of an LWRT. It was found that the modification effect of PP‐g‐MAH is more significant. Before the mass fraction of PP‐g‐MAH reaches 20%, the tensile and flexural properties of the LWRT increased with the PP‐g‐MAH content. The required content of PP‐g‐MAH in the LWRT is high compared with the voidless composites. Structures with a good matrix distribution and dispersion are anticipated in LWRTs, which are not considered in voidless composites. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:2212–2223, 2018. © 2016 Society of Plastics Engineers