Enhanced mechanical, thermal, barrier, and antibacterial properties of polypropylene nanocomposites reinforced with nano‐silver carbon black
Fei‐Fan Ge, Jian‐Hua Du, Weihua Yao, Bunnakorn Suntamit, Chin-San Wu, Pranut Potiyaraj, Zheng‐Lu Ma, Charasphat Preuksarattanawut, Yu Bai, Chi‐Hui Tsou
Abstract
Abstract This study investigates the incorporation of nano‐silver carbon black (AgCB) into polypropylene (PP) to develop nanocomposites with enhanced mechanical, thermal, barrier, and antibacterial properties. AgCB, synthesized with a carbon black‐to‐silver ratio of 19:1, was incorporated into PP at 0.5–5 wt% via melt blending. At 1 wt%, AgCB improved tensile strength by 21.5%, enhanced thermal stability, and reduced water vapor and oxygen permeability, achieving optimal performance with uniform dispersion. With increasing AgCB content, antibacterial activity improved significantly, achieving a sterilization rate exceeding 99.7%, although higher concentrations led to agglomeration, reducing mechanical and barrier performance. The dual function of AgCB as a nucleating agent and functional additive was demonstrated through DSC, WAXRD, and antibacterial tests. This work highlights the potential of AgCB as a cost‐effective filler for PP composites, suitable for applications requiring enhanced durability, barrier properties, and antimicrobial efficacy. Highlights Nano‐silver carbon black improves PP crystallinity and barrier performance. Optimal 1 wt% AgCB enhances PP's tensile strength and thermal stability. AgCB creates tortuous pathways, reducing water vapor and oxygen permeability. Low‐cost AgCB (CB:Ag = 19:1) achieves strong antibacterial activity (>99% efficacy). AgCB mitigates nanoparticle agglomeration, enhancing filler dispersion in PP.