Innovative Biochar-Based Composite Fibres from Recycled Material

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Polymer Science
• Sustainable Chemistry

Background:

• High cost and petroleum-based origin of conventional carbon materials limit their industrial applications.
• Recycled materials offer a sustainable alternative, reducing biomass waste and promoting CO2 sequestration.
• Biochar, derived from pyrolysis of recycled materials, presents a promising carbon source.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and characterize novel composite materials using biochar as a filler in thermoplastic polymer matrices.
• To evaluate the electrical conductivity and tensile strength of these biochar-polymer composites.
• To explore the potential of biochar composites as a cost-effective substitute for carbon nanotube (CNT) composites.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of composite materials with varying biochar filler contents within thermoplastic polymer matrices.
• Characterization using Differential Thermal Analysis (DTA), Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA), X-ray Diffraction (XRD), and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM).
• Assessment of electrical conductivity and tensile break strength.

Main Results:

• Composite materials with desirable flexibility and electrical conductivity were successfully produced.
• Material characterization revealed local ordering in composites, mirroring both biochar and polymer structures.
• XRD patterns of biochar showed similarities to those of carbon nanotubes (CNTs).

Conclusions:

• Biochar-based thermoplastic composites demonstrate promising mechanical and electrical properties.
• The cost-effectiveness and comparable properties to CNTs suggest biochar composites as a viable alternative for various applications.
• This research highlights the potential of utilizing recycled materials for advanced composite development.