Impact of Compatibilizer on the Electrical and Thermal Characteristics of Areca Fibre-Filled Polypropylene Composites

Abstract

This study examines the effects of the coupling agent maleic anhydride-grafted polypropylene on the thermal and dielectric properties of areca–polypropylene composites. Test specimens of both uncoupled and coupled composites were prepared using injection molding methods in accordance with ASTM standards, with filler percentages ranging from 20 to 50%. Dielectric characteristics were evaluated across frequencies ranging from 10 Hz to 10 MHz and temperatures from 30 °C to 120 °C at 10 °C intervals. The results showed enhanced dielectric properties in the maleic anhydride-grafted polypropylene composites due to improved fibre dispersion and polarization mechanisms. These composites, with their high dielectric constants, have potential applications in gate dielectrics, actuators, sensors, and more. The morphology and chemical composition were analyzed using scanning electron microscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, while thermogravimetric analysis and water diffusion coefficient tests confirmed the successful grafting of the coupling agent onto the fibres.