Enhancing Mechanical Properties of Polypropylene Composites Reinforced with Date Palm Fiber Using Maleic Anhydride Grafted Polypropylene as a Compatibilizer

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Document Type : Research Article

Authors

1 Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Semnan University, Semnan, Iran

2 Department of mechanical engineering, Semnan university, Semnan, P.O.B: 35131-19111, Iran (Associate professor)

3 Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Velayat University, P.O. Box 99111-31311, Iranshahr, Iran

Abstract

This study investigates the effects of incorporating date palm fiber (DPF), polypropylene grafted maleic anhydride (PP-g-MA), and impact-modifying masterbatch on the tensile properties of polypropylene (PP) composites. Using a design of experiments (DOE) approach and analysis of variance (ANOVA), the interactions between these components were analyzed. The tensile strength of the composites increased by up to 21.08% compared to pure PP, reaching 19.6 MPa, while the elastic modulus improved by 54.78%, reaching 2.43 GPa, at 20 wt.% DPF and 5 wt.% PP-g-MA. Although the masterbatch enhanced impact resistance, its higher concentrations reduced tensile strength by up to 31.97% compared to formulations with minimal masterbatch content. The optimal composition—20 wt.% DPF, 5 wt.% PP-g-MA, and 1 wt.% masterbatch—exhibited the best overall mechanical performance, balancing tensile strength, elastic modulus, and impact resistance. This study highlights the synergistic effects of natural fibers and polymer compatibilizers, providing a pathway for the development of sustainable, high-performance bio-composites.

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Main Subjects

Mechanics of Advanced Composite Structures

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 17 May 2025

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