Dynamic Mechanical and Perforation Impact Behavior of All-PP Composites Containing Beta-Nucleated Random PP Copolymer as Matrix and Stretched PP Homopolymer Tape as Reinforcement: Effect of Draw Ratio of the Tape

Abstract

Cross-ply all-polypropylene (PP) composite laminates were prepared by hot consolidation after tape winding combined with film stacking. Alpha (α) PP tapes of different draw ratios (DR = 8 and 12), produced by online extrusion stretching, served as reinforcements. Beta (β)-nucleated random PP copolymer, introduced in the form of a film, composed the matrix. The E-modulus of the PP tapes increased whereas their density decreased with increasing DR. The volume fraction of the reinforcement and the void content were estimated using optical microscopic images. The all-PP composites were subjected to dynamic mechanical thermal analysis, flexural, and instrumented falling weight impact tests. It was found that with increasing draw ratio of the α-PP tapes, the stiffness, strength, and perforation resistance of the composites were improved.

Keywords

all-polypropylene composite dynamic mechanical thermal analysis instrumented falling weight impact polypropylene draw ratio.

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