Ternary composites based on PP-EPDM blends reinforced with flax fibers.: Part II:: Mechanical properties/morphology relationship

The mechanical properties and morphology of ternary composites based on PP-EPDM blends reinforced with natural flax fibers are analyzed. In order to evaluate the simultaneous effect of the incorporation of both elastomer and fibers, an experimental design based on a Doehlert Uniform Net has been employed. The tensile, flexural and impact behaviors of the composites are investigated, and the results show that flax fibers behave as an effective reinforcing agent in these systems. In fact, a considerable increase in the studied properties in the presence of the fibers was observed. It is interesting to note that the reinforcing effect is more noticeable as the EPDM content in the blend increases. Morphological studies by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were also carried out.