Mechanical and thermal characterization of elastomer modified polypropylene hybrid composites reinforced with hazelnut shell and wollastonite fillers

Abstract

The demand for sustainable and recyclable materials in industrial applications has led to a surge in interest in green composites, particularly those incorporating natural fillers derived from agro-food industry waste. This study investigates the mechanical and thermal properties of polypropylene (PP) hybrid composites filled with hazelnut shell and wollastonite, along with the effect of styrene-ethylene/butylene-styrene (SEBS) and SEBS-g-maleic anhydride (SEBS-g-MA) compatibilizers. Various characterization techniques, including tensile, flexural, and impact tests, as well as differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermogravimetry (TGA), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analyses, were employed to evaluate the composites. Results demonstrate that the addition of wollastonite significantly improves mechanical properties, while hazelnut shell filler affects thermal behavior and stability. SEBS and SEBS-g-MA compatibilizers enhance impact resistance; however, they lead to a decrease in other mechanical properties. DSC and TGA analyses demonstrate changes in crystallization behavior and thermal stability due to filler and compatibilizer incorporation. SEM microstructure images show the distribution of SEBS and SEBS-g-MA within the composite structure, affecting mechanical and thermal properties. Overall, this study highlights the importance of filler selection, compatibilizer addition, and their distribution in attaining desired properties for industrial applications. Future research should focus on optimizing formulations for specific uses and assessing long-term performance under real-world conditions.