The role of m-phenylenedimaleimide in reactive processing of poly(propylene)/magnesium hydroxide composites - 1. Effect of processing temperature andcomposite formulation on mechanical properties

The role of the interface modifier, m-phenylenedimaleimide (BMI), and a lub ricant (a mixture of fatty acid amides and esters) in the reactive processi ng of poly(propylene)/magnesium hydroxide-based composites has been studied . In this investigation process a three-factorial experimental design has b een used as a tool to investigate the simultaneous effect of interface modi fier, lubricant and processing temperature, with respect to mechanical prop erties. All of the latter variables were found to influence the properties of the composites. It was found that the significant improvement in mechani cal properties (ca. 100%, relative to unmodified composite) afforded by BMI was not, with correct formulation, offset by the detrimental effect associ ated with the lubricant. The effect of temperature was complex but appeared to be strongly influenced by the BMI level.