Evaluation of mechanical and water absorption properties of polypropylene/recycled poly(ethylene terephthalate) blends

Abstract

This study is part of the recovery and mechanical recycling of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) waste, which is an abundant deposit due to its use in the packaging sector. Mixtures were prepared by melting, the effect of the composition of r-PET and MAPP was followed by morphological and mechanical studies. The results were discussed in relation to base polymers. In the absence of the compatibilizing agent (MAPP), PP/r-PET mixtures at different concentrations of r-PET exhibit a clear phase separation with poor dispersion of r-PET in the PP matrix. The addition of MAPP in PP/r-PET mixtures results in a decrease in the particle size of the dispersed phase (r-PET) in the PP matrix and an improvement in the interfacial conditions. This results in an improvement of the mechanical properties at traction and bending.