Grafting of maleic anhydride onto polypropylene: Synthesis and characterization

Isotactic polypropylene was grafted with maleic anhydride using benzoyl peroxide as an initiator and toluene as a solvent. Effects of various parameters such as monomer and initiator concentration, reaction time, and reaction temperature on percentage grafting were studied. Effect of various solvents on extent of grafting was also studied. The maximum extent of grafting achieved was 5.3%. The graft copolymers were characterized by i.r., thermal, viscometric, and contact angle studies. Improved thermal stability and decreased intrinsic viscosity and critical surface tension were observed for graft copolymers. © 1994 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.