Impact, Tear, and Dielectric Properties of Cotton/Polypropylene Commingled Composites

Natural fibers can be used as reinforcements in thermoplastic non-structural applications. Commingling them with matrix fibers lowers the melt flow distance of molten matrix during the processing. In this study, polypropylene (PP) and textile cotton fibers were commingled and fabricated to composite laminates. Process variables like temperature, pressure, and holding time affect the mechanical properties like impact strength and tear resistance. Fiber content and winding pattern or fiber orientation were also important for the optimization of the mechanical properties. The modification of the interface by chemical treatments of the matrix or reinforcement with reagents like potassium permanganate, benzoyl peroxide, and maleic anhydride modified PP enhances some mechanical properties like tear strength of cotton fiber-reinforced PP commingled composite systems. Fiber content, treatments, and moisture also varies dielectric constant and volume resistivity.

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