Polypropylene–microcrystalline cellulose composites with enhanced compatibility and properties

Polypropylene (PP)–microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) composites were prepared containing Poly(propylene-graft-maleic anhydride) (PP-g-MA) and MCC treated with silicone oil, stearic acid or alkyltitanate coupling agent to promote matrix–filler dispersion and compatability. Infrared spectroscopy confirmed surface treatment. MCC content and PP-g-MA increased PP thermal stability and crystallisation temperature (Tc), though reduced crystallinity due to cellulose II crystals. Tensile stress–strain analysis revealed increased modulus with MCC content, PP-g-MA, alkyltitanate and stearic acid. MCC and PP-g-MA reduced creep deformation and increased permanent strain. Storage modulus, loss modulus and glass transition temperature increased with MCC concentration due to effective interaction between PP and MCC.