Morphology of Microinjection Molded iPP Parts in Controlled Conditions

A part made of just one material (mono-material) is a new frontier in reducing environmental impact plastic, being 100% recyclable. The focus this work on the possibility controlling properties parts obtained by microinjection molding (μIM). μIM tests variothermal conditions are conducted an isotactic polypropylene. Two steps adopted: filling and packing stages at selected mold temperature, subsequent annealing while sample still inside mold. comparison with produced under constant temperature also performed. Electronic microscopy adopted for characterization morphology. Furthermore, atomic force coupled HarmoniX (HMX) tool allows detecting simultaneously local morphology mechanical properties. characterized fibrillar layer close to walls spherulitic core; transition zone detectable between. Morphology significantly influences properties: shows minimum value elastic modulus, additionally, modulus increases spherulite dimensions. Eventually, step results be crucial determining can as robust method tailor through process.