CHARACTERIZATION OF A COMPOSITE POLYPROPYLENE /RESIDUAL CERAMIC

Abstract

Abstract Composites are materials containing two or more distinct phases with an interface, the elements interact and modifying properties of virgin material. Control interface generates the interaction between the matrix and the particles, and the mechanical properties profile according to the structure of composito1. They are often added to a polymer matrix, which typically combine the advantages of its constituent phases generating improvements in their physical and chemical properties. Mullite is an excellent candidate as a reinforcing material for its properties, however, for practical applications needs to be reinforced with zirconia. Mullite is characterized by excellent mechanical properties such as: high modulus of rupture and compressive strength both cold and hot, chemical stability, thermal stability reflected by its low coefficient of thermal expansion. At the present work we produce a composite whose polymeric matrix is polypropylene added with a residual ceramic material investment casting process, Mullite - zirconia, and PPMA as compatibilizer. Mechanical tests were performed in composites varying the percentage of ceramic and compatibilizer, SEM tests were previously performed to determine the microstructure of the ceramic material