Optimization of the Mechanical and Morphological Properties of Polypropylene Bio-Loaded by Argan Nut Shell Particles with Different Theoretical and Numerical Models

The bio loading of polymers has become very studied recently considering the requirements in terms of regulations, environment, sustainable development and green chemistry. In this study, we have optimized the mechanical properties of Polypropylene which is more used in several applications like packaging, automotive and electronic components. This optimization is carried out by the bio loading of the PP using Argan Nut Shell powder which is much neglected by researchers in the field of composites due to its lightness, availability and lower prices in addition to their friendship properties to the environment.Optimization of the properties of PP reinforced by ANS powder particles especially in terms of perfect adhesion, good dispersion is achieved by Styrene ethylene-butene-styrene grafted with maleic anhydride (SEBS-g-MA) thus giving better compatibility to the mixture matrix-bio load.Predictions of the mechanical properties of the bio composite studied are made by several theoretical and numerical models with comparing their results to those of experimental tests.The Mori Tanaka and Double Inclusion models give more reliable and optimal results compared to the Tsai Pagano, Reuss and Voigt models, provided that the particle content are less than 25 Wt%. The predictive power of the Mori Tanaka and Double Inclusion models is not limited by the orientation, the content or the change of aspect ratios of particles.Young's modules of these ANS powder particles is 8300 MPa, thus giving optimal results in terms of rigidity for the Polypropylene studied. This bioload will be considered as an excellent alternative to classical loads which are denser, more expensive and affect the environment.