Properties of wood polymer composites based on polypropylene/olive wood flour: effects of fiber treatment and compatibilizer

In this study, wood polymer composites (WPC) were produced by polypropylene (PP) as the matrix material and 30 wt% olive flour (OWF) filler material, for injection applications. Various treatments of OWF—including single treatment or co-modifications using silane treatment, heat maleic anhydride grafted (MAPP) compatibilizer—were used to improve PP/OWF compatibility mechanical properties. Structural thermal characterization OWF after has been implemented Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). FTIR energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) analyses revealed interactions between coupling agent. Silane increased stability OWF. Results tests that Young's modulus values with respect those pure PP, while their tensile impact strengths decreased. Moreover, MAPP enhanced Heat introduced higher toughness in compared other treatments. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) showed evidence improved interfacial adhesion consequently properties A further enhancement was recorded these MAPP.