Eco‐Friendly Suspension Grafting of Maleic Anhydride Onto Polypropylene Using Surfactants: A Sustainable Approach to Polymer Modification

ABSTRACT This study presents an innovative, environmentally friendly method for maleic anhydride (MAH) grafting onto polypropylene (PP) using a surfactant‐based suspension grafting system, replacing the conventional use of xylene. By employing sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) and cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) as surfactants, the system effectively wets the polypropylene surface, thereby enhancing the grafting area and achieving a grafting ratio of up to 1.82%. This method not only reduces the environmental impact of volatile organic solvents but also simplifies the post‐treatment process. Compared to traditional xylene‐based systems, the surfactant‐based approach operates at lower reaction temperatures and significantly reduces the odor associated with the grafting process. Infrared spectroscopy and water contact angle measurements confirm the successful grafting of MAH and the enhanced hydrophilicity of the modified polypropylene. The results indicate that this method offers a sustainable, efficient alternative for polypropylene modification with potential applications in industries such as automotive manufacturing, where environmentally friendly materials are increasingly in demand.