BIODEGRADABLE FIBER POLYMER COMPOSITES POLYLACTIC ACID (PLA)COIR USING BENTONITE

Abstract

Biodegradable fiber polymer composites: Polylactic acid (PLA)/coir using bentonite refers to a type of composite material that combines polylactic acid (PLA) as the polymer matrix, coir fibers as reinforcement, and bentonite as a filler material. The aim of this composite is to develop a sustainable and environmentally friendly material that can potentially replace traditional synthetic composites.Polylactic acid (PLA) is a biodegradable and renewable polymer derived from renewable resources such as corn starch or sugarcane. Hybrid fiber reinforced polymer nanocomposites were prepared from kenaf fiber, coir fiber, polypropylene and montmorillonite nanoclay through hot compression method. The study investigated the impact of fiber hybridization and montmorillonite on the physical, mechanical, and biodegradable properties of the composites. To increase adhesion and compatibility between the fiber and polymer matrix, both bentonite and coir fibers were treated with a 2% sodium hydroxide solution to reduce their hydrophilic nature before use. The mechanical properties of the composites, including tensile strength and Young's modulus, were measured using a universal tensile testing machine. Scanning electron microscopy analysis revealed that montmorillonite significantly improved the adhesion and compatibility between fibers and the polymer matrix. Hybridization improved the biodegradability and water absorption characteristics of the composites, while MMT addition had the opposite effect on these properties.