Improving the Environmental Sustainability through Efficient Recycling and Valorization of Polypropylene (PP)/Polyamide 66 (PA66)/Nanoclay Nanocomposite Blends with Recycled Polypropylene

Abstract

Polypropylene/polyamide 66 composites were enhanced by introducing a polypropylene anhydrous melamine graft agent (PP-g-AM) and by adding different contents of recycled polypropylene (rPP). The composite was prepared using an internal mixer. Our research described here aimed to investigate the processing, production, and characteristics of the synthesized nanocomposites. The properties and structure of the mixtures were summarized to determine the optimal ratio of adding rPP in the nanocomposite (rPP/PP-g-AM/PA66). To comprehend the impact of rPP on the properties of the nanocomposite and the effectiveness of adding rPP for polymer blends/clay nanocomposites, we performed a rheological study and evaluated the mechanical, thermal, and barrier properties. X-ray diffraction analysis demonstrated the formation of an exfoliated structure of the mixtures of PP/PP-g-MA/PA66 reinforced with rPP. Through significant mechanical improvement, the mixtures showed better resistance to impact forces. Thermal analysis highlighted an increase in the mixtures’ stability under heat. Additionally, the carefully designed mixtures presented interesting barrier qualities.