Abstract:
Polymer composites are valued for their mechanical properties and lightweight, while
environmental concerns boost interest in bio-based polymers. However, high
flammability remains a major issue, and efforts to reduce it with flame-retardant fillers
had limited success. Present work focuses on modifying cellulose nanocrystals through
acid hydrolysis and green esterification, confirmed by FTIR, SEM, and XRD analyses,
which reveal decreased XRD peak intensities, a carboxyl group peak in FTIR at
1721cm-1, and morphological changes in SEM. Further, modified cellulose
nanocrystals are incorporated into the EPDM/PP composite to enhance flame
retardancy and biodegradability. The m-CNC and MMT-clay EPDM/PP composite is
processed via melting in an internal mixer and pressing with a hot presser to create
Thermoplastic Vulcanizates (TPV's) nanocomposite sheet, which is shaped for further
testing using methods such as UTM for mechanical properties. Flame retardancy is
evaluated using UL-94 and LOI tests, while biodegradability is assessed through ASTM
composting and photodegradation methods.
