Opoka—Sediment Rock as New Type of Hybrid Mineral Filler for Polymer Composites

Abstract

The work presents a comprehensive profile of the physicochemical characteristics of opoka sedimentary rock in the context of its use as a hybrid filler for thermoplastics. Determining the functional parameters of the studied filler was the main aim of this research. Thermal treatment leads to changes in its morphology and phase composition. A wide range of physicochemical techniques was used, such as low-temperature nitrogen adsorption, FT-IR, TGA, XRD, optical, and electron microscopy. The susceptibility of the material to micronisation was also tested (ball milling). Due to its widespread occurrence, opoka can be an attractive alternative to fillers such as silica or chalk. In order to verify this statement, polypropylene composites thereof were prepared by melt blending and injection molding, and studied by mechanical testing and microscopic imaging.