Enhancing polypropylene composites: synergistic effects of graphene nanoplatelets and glass fibers on mechanical and thermal properties.

This study investigates the development of polypropylene (PP) nanocomposites reinforced with graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs) and glass fibers (FGs), focusing on the evaluation of their morphological, thermal, and mechanical properties. Through twin-screw and single-screw extrusion processes followed by injection, we explore the influence of different GNP concentrations (0, 0.125, and 0.5 wt%) and the addition of glass fibers (20, 40, and 60 wt%) on the PP matrix. The results indicate that the careful incorporation of GNP and glass fibers not only significantly enhances the mechanical strength and thermal deflection temperature of the nanocomposites but also affects crystallinity and thermal conductivity in predictable and beneficial ways. Particularly, nanocomposites containing 0.125% GNP and 40% glass fibers exhibited an increase of 254.1% in tensile strength and 243.2% in flexural strength compared to pure PP, highlighting the potential of these materials in high-performance engineering applications. This work not only advances knowledge in the area of polymer nanocomposites but also demonstrates the practical potential of hybrid materials in overcoming the limitations of conventional materials, opening new perspectives for their application in critical sectors such as automotive, aerospace, and construction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]