Biopolymers Based Green Composites: Mechanical, Thermal and Physico-chemical Characterization

Natural cellulosic fibers are one of the smartest materials for use as reinforcement in polymers possessing a number of applications. Keeping in mind the immense advantages of the natural fibers, in present work synthesis of natural cellulosic fibers reinforced polymer composites through compression molding technique have been reported. Scanning Electron microscopy (SEM), Thermo gravimetric/Differential thermal/Derivative Thermogravimetry (TGA/DTA/DTG), absorption in different solvents, moisture absorbance, water uptake and chemical resistance measurements were used as characterization techniques for evaluating the different behaviour of cellulosic natural fibers reinforced polymer composites. Effect of fiber loading on mechanical properties like tensile strength, flexural strength, compressive strength and wear resistances has also been determined. Reinforcing of the polymer matrix with natural fibers was done in the form of short fiber. Present work indicates that green composites can be successfully fabricated with useful mechanical properties. These composites may be used in secondary structural applications in automotive, housing etc.     

Development and Application of Green Composites: Using Coffee Ground and Bamboo Flour

Environmental degradation and global warming are increasing as a result of the use of petroleum. Therefore, many industries are seeking more eco-friendly materials that will decrease the level of environmental contamination and economic cost. Recently, the level of coffee consumption has increased rapidly. Therefore, the amount of coffee grounds discarded is increasing. In this study, polylactic acid, coffee grounds and bamboo flour were compounded for green composites. Coffee grounds are used in the recycling of food waste. In addition, 4,4-methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (MDI) was used as a coupling agent. The mechanical strength of green composites decreased with increasing natural filler content. However, mechanical and thermal properties were increased by the addition of MDI as a coupling agent. The hydroxyl groups of natural fillers reacted with the isocyanate group of MDI, and a urethane linkage was created between the polymer and natural fillers.     

Wood Polypropylene (PP) Composites Manufactured by Mango Wood Waste with Virgin or Recycled PP: Mechanical,Morphology, Melt Flow Index and Crystalline Behaviour

Compositions of wood-polypropylene composites (WPCs) are prepared through melt compounding followed by injection moulding. WPCs are formulated for eight compositions with a different weight ratio of wood, virgin or recycled polypropylene and coupling agent. WPCs compositions are compared in terms of Melt Flow Index, Tensile, FESEM images, Flexural and crystallinity index for same operating variable conditions. From the results, recycled polypropylene based WPCs are superior in comparison to virgin polypropylene based WPCs. With the addition of 5 % coupling agent in recycled polypropylene-based composites for 45:50 composition, tensile and flexural values of WPCs are higher in comparison to all composition and neat virgin or recycled polypropylene. This work stands for the utilization of waste wood with recycled plastic for replacement of wood and virgin plastic.     

Mechanical,Thermal and Microstructural Characteristic of 3D Printed Polylactide Composites with Natural Fibers: Wood,Bamboo and Cork

Journal of Polymers and the Environment - In the study, polylactide-based (PLA) composites modified with natural particles (wood, bamboo, and cork) and with different levels of infilling (100%,...     

The Encapsulation of Green Tea Extract in Cyclodextrin and Loading into Chitosan-Based Composites: Controlled-Release Behavior and Antioxidant Properties

Journal of Polymers and the Environment - Green tea extract was encapsulated in cyclodextrin to form an inclusion complex. Fourier transform infrared, X-ray diffraction, and 1H-nuclear magnetic...