Modification of Laser Marking Ability and Properties of Polypropylene Using Silica Waste as a Filler

Abstract

Polypropylene (PP) belongs to the group of polymers characterized by low susceptibility to absorption of electromagnetic radiation in the infrared range (λ = 1064 nm). This research consisted of assessing the possibility of using silica waste from the metallurgic industry as an additive for PP laser marking. The modifier was introduced into the polymer matrix in the range from 1 to 10 wt%. The effects of laser radiation were assessed based on colorimetric tests and microscopic surface analysis. The mechanical properties of the composites were determined during the static tensile tests. The thermal properties were investigated via differential scanning calorimetry. It was found that the introduction of silica waste into polypropylene allows for the effective marking of sample surfaces with the use of a laser beam. The greatest contrast between the graphic symbol and the background was obtained for silica contents of 3 and 5 wt%, with the use of a low-speed laser head and a strong concentration of the laser beam. The application of silica caused an increase in the modulus of elasticity and the tensile strength of the composite samples. Increases in the crystallization temperature and the degree of crystallinity of the polymer matrix were also observed. It was found that silica waste can act as multifunctional additive for polypropylene.

Evaluation of Mechanical and Thermal Properties of Polypropylene-Based Nanocomposites Reinforced with Silica Nanofillers via Melt Processing Followed by Injection Molding

“…Among other properties, NS is usually used as a clarifier or nucleating agent to promote the crystallization of a semi-crystalline polymer matrix. Thus, it contributes to the initiation of the crystallization at elevated temperature profiles [12]. Kumar et al [13] highlighted that the amalgamation of the filler with a decrease in size from smaller to nanoscale improves the filler-resin interfacial adhesion.…”

“…PP nanocomposites containing dual filler systems based on MgFeAl-layered double hydroxide (2.5%, 5%, and 7.5% LDH) cause catalytic degradation effects during melt processing [24]. Importantly, the incorporation of silica waste into the PP matrix resulted in a gradual increase in the tensile modulus and tensile strength with an unfortunate decrease of elongation at break (from 8.9% to 6.35% for the PP/10%silica waste composite) [12]. In this rationale, it is vital that the fundamental concept and inherent properties of nano-scale particles with a low content (≤3% filler loading) are evaluated in the context of the tailored mechanical, thermal, and thermomechanical properties of PP nanocomposites.…”

Effect of intumescent flame retardants on non‐isothermal crystallization behavior of high‐density polyethylene

“…The presence of modifiers will typically lead to a change in the degree of crystallinity for semicrystalline thermoplastic polymers or to a change in the cross-link density in the case of the thermoset resins. [5][6][7][8][9][10][11] While the influence of selected additives on the characteristics subjected to deliberate modification is usually considered, along with the analysis of basic functional properties, including mechanical properties, it seems advisable to extend the scope of research by a thorough structural analysis, which may constitute an additional reference point for the development of further new procedures or material solutions. One of the most important modifications to most commodity plastics is to increase their flame resistance.…”

Post-Molding Shrinkage, Structure and Properties of Cellular Injection-Molded Polypropylene

“…PP composite containing 10 wt. % of silica can have a 20% higher tensile modulus value compared to unmodified PP [ 19 ]. However, the tensile strength and impact strength of the material deteriorated.…”