Recyclable PP/Polyamide Composite*

A commercial grade of polypropylene matrix reinforced with waste polyamide (nylon 6) fibres of two diameters at levels up to 40wt% (100 polypropylene + 40 polyamide) was studied.Smaller diameter fibres showed better mechanical properties than larger diameter ones. Attempts were made to improve the interfacial adhesion between the fibres and the matrix by grafting with maleic anhydride and with also styrene maleic anhydride. The mechanical properties showed significant improvements as a result of these modifications. Thermal stability was also marginally improved. These composites could be easily recycled by processing them above the melting point of the reinforcing fibres.