Silica derived from variety of sources and its functionalized forms as an antiblock additive in polypropylene

Abstract

Silica derived from variety of sources and its functionalized form has been studied as an antiblock additive in polypropylene (PP). Commonly inorganic antiblock additives are added to PP films to reduce the blocking and facilitate separation of polymeric films. However, such types of additives can cause a reduction of clarity in transparent films. In the present work, comparative analysis of silica obtained from various sources specifically from rice husk ash and its further functionalization/modifications using n-octyltriethoxysilane has been performed. Since silica synthesized via rice husk ash was obtained from waste (rice husk ash), this further solves the problem of ash disposal. The functionalized silica has been characterized using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The morphological analysis and particle shape and size has been characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The melt flow index (MFI), yellowness index and other mechanical characterizations including tensile and impact strength was performed for 30–40 µm thick tubular quenched polypropylene (TQPP) films. These films were evaluated to have high transmittance (above 93%), high clarity (above 98%) and very low haze (less than 2%) indicating the high transparency and improved optical properties. The blocking force and optical properties are quite similar for TQPP film containing silica synthesized from rice husk ash and commercial grade silica and hence, proving silica synthesized from rice husk ash to be an effective substitute for commercial silica in TQPP films.

Organically modified mesoporous silica as a performance additive in tubular quenched polypropylene films

“…The major reason could be the large particle size owing to aggregation and the irregular shape of agglomerates, creating more roughness at the surface of polymer. 10 Moderate porosity and lower surface area as compared to CMS and MS-OH also added to its efficiency as an anti-blocking additive.…”

“…The major reason could be the large particle size owing to aggregation and the irregular shape of agglomerates, creating more roughness at the surface of polymer. 10 Moderate porosity and lower surface area as compared to CMS and MS-OH also added to its efficiency as an anti-blocking additive. For packaging applications, the visual appeal of the films enclosing the articles, i. e. high clarity, low haze, and high gloss, is another crucial factor for both manufacturers and customers.…”

“…It is also popular for its reinforcing properties in elastomers, use in adhesives, cosmetics, as an adsorbent or dehumidifying agent, and in the food industry as an anti-caking agent to control the rheological properties of the product. 10,11 They also display other interesting properties, including good chemical and thermal stability, permeability, low refractive index (similar range as polyolefins), and high surface area. 12 The incorporation of silica particles has proven to improve a wide range of properties of the base polymer, such as, electrical and mechanical properties, weathering and thermal resistance, optical properties, flame retardancy, impact properties, and abrasion resistance.…”

Nitroxide-Functionalized Green Silica with Radical Capturing Potential as a Filler in the Styrene–Butadiene Rubber Compound

“…The in situ addition of silanes during mixing does not often provide proper hydroxyl condensation due to the limited mixing time, whereas presilanization can yield functionalized silica, which can improve the compatibility of the filler and matrix. The presilanization for the synthesis of functionalized silica can be carried out via postmodification, − where functionalized silica can be synthesized in a two-step process that involves the synthesis of control silica followed by surface modification. The presilanization can also be performed via co-condensation, − in which the functionalized silica can be synthesized in a single-step-process directly from the silica precursor.…”

Effect of hybrid eco‐friendly reinforcement and their size on mechanical and flame retardant properties of polypropylene composites for technical applications

“…17 The efficacy of natural fiber polymer composites (NFPCs) hinges on a myriad of factors: the nature and treatment of fibers, the plastic in use, the additives introduced, processing methodologies, fiber-matrix compatibility, fiber alignment, stress distribution, fiber wetting, fiber concentration, fiber aspect ratio, and the quality of fiber-matrix adhesion. [18][19][20][21][22] These intricacies collectively shape the tensile strength, elastic modulus, and fracture properties of the composite. A burgeoning trend is the marriage of lignocellulosic fibers with inorganic ceramic fibers, notably basalt-derived ones.…”