Interfacial interactions in particulate filled thermoplastics: Mechanism, strength, properties

Using the results of stress analysis the factors influencing the micromechanical deformations in particulate filled composites were studied. It was shown that interfacial interactions influence slightly shear yielding and crazing, but have a significant effect on dewetting. Interactions can be modified by surface treatment. Types and mechanisms of surface treatment are discussed. A model describing the composition dependence of tensile properties makes possible the quantitative evaluation of interaction. Attention is called to the importance of composite structure; aggregation, orientation of anisotropic particles, nucleating effect of the filler, all can change the properties of the composite.