Effects of surface functionalized partially reduced graphene oxide and different compatibilizers on the properties and structure of PP/EPR nanocomposites

In this study polypropylene/ethylene-propylene rubber (PP/EPR) and different amounts of partially reduced graphene oxide (prGO) and its derivatives were investigated. The nanocomposites were also compatibilized with EPR containing diethyl maleate (DEM), glycidyl methacrylate (GMA) and maleic anhydride (MAH) functionality as a means of controlling their ultimate mechanical behaviour and their structural morphology. Mechanical tests show that the addition of pristine prGO to PP/EPR blend promotes tensile strength and Young's modulus, while reducing elongation at break and impact strength. A significant improvement of these properties was achieved by the presence of functionalized prGO and EPR-g-DEM. TGA analysis showed that the nanocomposites exhibit a higher thermal stability than that of the matrix alone. XRD analysis revealed that the polymer chains have been successfully intercalated into prGO layers. SEM has been used to verify the dispersion of the prGO particles in the matrix and to reveal the developed morphology of PP/EPR, in the presence of compatibilizers and functionalized prGO.