Abstract
In this preliminary investigation, dolomite was added to the low-density polyethylene/kenaf core fiber (LDPE/KCF) biocomposites by using an internal mixer at 150°C, followed by compression molding at the same temperature. The dolomite contents were varied from 0 to 18 wt.%. The processing and stabilization torques, the stock and stabilization temperatures, the tensile and impact strengths, and the thermal decomposition properties of the prepared biocomposites have been characterized and analyzed. The processing recorder results of the LDPE/KCF biocomposites indicated that the stabilization torques and stabilization temperatures have increased with the addition of dolomite. Mechanical testing results showed that the presence of dolomite has increased the tensile stress, tensile modulus, and impact strength of the LDPE/KCF biocomposites. Thermogravimetric analysis results displayed that the thermal decomposition properties of the biocomposites have also increased with the increase of the dolomite content. This research led to the conclusion that the addition of dolomite in lower amounts (<20 wt.%) could act as a secondary filler for improving the processing, mechanical and thermal properties of LDPE/KCF biocomposites without surface treatments of the natural fiber.
Highlights
The use of natural fibers as an alternative primary filler for polymer biocomposites has become attractive to researchers and industries
Journal of Composites a secondary filler such as a mineral has been used to evade the surface treatments of natural fibers. This secondary filler is important for the production of organic-inorganic fillers hybrid polymer composites and it could assist the primary filler in the reinforcement of the biocomposites as well [14]
The stabilization torques and stabilization temperatures of the LDPE/KCF biocomposites have increased with the addition of dolomite, as indicated by the processing recorder results
Summary
The use of natural fibers as an alternative primary filler for polymer biocomposites has become attractive to researchers and industries. Natural fibers have a low manufacturing energy demand compared to commonly used synthetic fibers as well [5] This indirectly would produce polymer composites with a very low production cost. Natural fibers can reduce the production cost of the biocomposite products, they are can lessen the performance of prepared polymer composites [9]. There are some limitations of using chemicals, since they are expensive, and require more energy and time to carry out, and so forth [13] In this preliminary investigation, Journal of Composites a secondary filler such as a mineral has been used to evade the surface treatments of natural fibers. This secondary filler is important for the production of organic-inorganic fillers hybrid polymer composites and it could assist the primary filler in the reinforcement of the biocomposites as well [14]
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
