Influence of Interphase Imperfection on Micro-Crack Behavior in Polymer Composites Filled by Rigid Particles

Abstract

In this paper a particulate composites with polypropylene matrix and rigid mineral fillers are studied. The polymer particulate composites are frequently used in many engineering applications. Due to the physical and chemical interaction between matrix and particles a third phase (generally called interphase) is formed. The composite is modeled as a three-phase continuum. The properties of particles and interphase have a significant effect on the global behavior of the composite. On the basis of fracture mechanics methodology the interaction of micro-crack propagation in the matrix filled by rigid particles covered by the very soft interphase is analyzed. The effect of the composite structure on their mechanical properties is studied here from the theoretical point of view. The properties of particles and matrix were determined experimentally. Conclusions of this paper can contribute to a better understanding of the behavior of micro-crack in polymer particulate composites with respect to interphase.