Bio-based composites from waste agricultural residues

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Polymer Science
• Agricultural Engineering

Background:

• Thermoplastics often utilize wood fibers as reinforcement.
• Waste agricultural residues offer a sustainable alternative to traditional reinforcements.
• Improving the interfacial adhesion between natural fibers and thermoplastic matrices is crucial for enhanced composite properties.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate waste agricultural residues (sunflower stalk, corn stalk, bagasse fibers) as reinforcements for thermoplastics.
• To investigate the impact of two coupling agent grades (Eastman G-3003 and G-3216) on the mechanical properties of these composites.
• To compare the performance of different agricultural fibers as thermoplastic reinforcements.

Main Methods:

• Composite samples were prepared with 30 wt.% fiber loading.
• Three levels of coupling agent content (0, 1.5, and 2.5 wt.%) were applied.
• Mechanical properties (tensile, flexural, impact) and morphology were analyzed.

Main Results:

• Addition of coupling agents significantly improved tensile, flexural, and impact properties compared to untreated samples.
• Morphological studies confirmed improved interfacial bonding due to coupling agents.
• Composites reinforced with bagasse fibers exhibited superior mechanical performance.

Conclusions:

• Waste agricultural residues, particularly bagasse fiber, are effective reinforcements for thermoplastics.
• Coupling agents enhance the mechanical performance of natural fiber-reinforced thermoplastics.
• The choice of coupling agent grade (G-3216 showing better results than G-3003) influences composite properties.