Preparation and Characterization of Polymer Nanocomposite through Melt Blending

Chin, See Yee (2019) Preparation and Characterization of Polymer Nanocomposite through Melt Blending. Final Year Project (Bachelor), Tunku Abdul Rahman University College.

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Abstract

In this project, the nanocrystalline cellulose (NCC) reinforced acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) composites was prepared by melt blending. In melt blending method, the nanocellulose was mechanically dispersed through the polymer matrix with a high temperature and high shear force mixer. The samples obtained was characterized by Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) and Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA). Tensile testing was conducted to study the mechanical properties of NCC/ABS composites. These tests were compared with polymeric materials without reinforcing of NCC. A variety of silanes and MA have been applied as coupling agents in the NFPCs to promote interfacial adhesion and improve the properties of composites. FESEM images showed that most of the NCC particles were well dispersed with the ABS matrix. TGA resut showed that the maleated treated NCC had lower decomposition temperature. Treated NCC/ABS composites had slightly higher decomposition temperature as compared to untreated NCC/ABS composites From the tensile test results, the NCC/ABS composites with the addition of 3 wt. % of silane treated NCC exhibited best combination of properties. This nanocomposite was tested to have tensile strength at about 37.33 MPa, elastic modulus was 376.25 MPa and elongation at break was 17.50%.