Effect of MAPP as a Coupling Agent on the Performance of Jute–PP Composites

Abstract

Like other natural fibers jute, because of its hydrophilic nature, is incompatible with nonpolar plastics matrices. This has been the major handicap for preparing stable composites. In this paper we have used maleic anhydride grafted polypropylene, MAPP(G-3015) as the coupling agent for the surface modification of the fibers. Various parameters such as effect of fiber length, MAPP concentration, time period of MAPP treatment, percentage (wt./wt.) of fiber loading on mechanical properties such as tensile, flexural and impact strengths have been studied. It has been found that 30% fiber loading with 0.5% MAPP concentration in toluene and 5 min impregnation time with 6 mm average fiber lengths give the best results. Nearly 72.3% increase in flexural strength was observed in respect of treated composites. The fiber matrix interface was analyzed from the SEM micrographs. Water absorption of the composites has also been considerably reduced in the treated composites. Thermal behavior of the composites were also studied through DSC measurements. The MFI study also supports better fiber matrix adhesion.