Enhancement of the oleophilicity of recycled polypropylene by UVA irradiation and mechanical abrasion

Abstract

The effect of surface modification on the oleophilic property of recycled polypropylene (PP) was investigated. Surface modification was done through UVA irradiation, mechanical abrasion, and combined irradiation and abrasion. The change in oil adhesion property of the surface was determined through Contact Angle Measurement. Mechanical abrasion increased the contact angle of the surface. UVA irradiation increased the contact angle only up to a critical time of irradiation (six minutes) for all the samples. Beyond this time, contact angle and roughness diminished.