Comminuted thermoset recyclate as a reinforcing filler for thermoplastics - Part II - Structure-property effects in polypropylene compositions

Well characterised dough moulding compound (DMC) and woven glass fibre-rein forced phenolic (GWP) recyclate fillers have been investigated as reinforce ments for polypropylene. Consideration is given to the use of treatment sys tems to enhance fibre-matrix interfacial bonding and mechanical properties. Using a combination of grafted polymer and coupling agent, significant inc reases in recyclate/polypropylene composite properties are possible, the le vels obtained critically depending on glass fibre content. The role of the recyclate particles in initiating failure is discussed, as is the influence of compounding route on recyclate integrity and molecular mass changes to the host polymer matrix. (C) 2001 Kluwer Academic Publishers.