Abstract
A systematic study of effects of concentrations of maleated polypropylene (MAPP), dicumyl peroxide (DCP), Nanoblend concentrate (MB1001) and birch fibers on the mechanical properties of birch-polypropylene (PP) composite was undertaken with the objective to protect or increase the impact strength without losing tensile strength. Using Stagraphic Plus, the Central Composite Design made it possible to determine the optimum concentrations of additives and to maximize both the impact as well as tensile properties to reach values well above that of virgin PP.
