Role of Structure of the Pp/Magnetite Nanocomposites on Their Thermal Properties

Abstract

The thermal degradation behaviour of polypropylene and its magnetite composites have been investigated by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). Distribution of magnetite nanoparticles in a polymer matrix has been studied by scanning and transmission electron microscopy and also atomic force microscopy. The thermal and mechanical properties of nanocomposites based on polypropylene and magnetite nanoparticles have also been investigated. It has shown that, the introduction of Fe₃O₄ nanoparticles in polypropylene increases its thermal stability of about 100⁰C. The maximum increase in the thermal stability of PP was observed in the case of a 20% weight content of Fe₃O₄ nanoparticles in polypropylene.