Characteristics of starch-based biodegradable composites reinforced with date palm and flax fibers

Abstract

The aim of this work is to study the behavior of completely biodegradable starch-based composites containing date palm fibers in the range from 20 to 80wt%. Hybrid composites containing date palm and flax fibers, 25wt% each, were also examined. The composites were preheated and then hot pressed at 5MPa and 160°C for 30min. SEM investigation showed strong adhesion between fibers and matrix. Density measurements showed very small void fraction (less than 0.142%) for composites containing up to 50wt% fiber content. Increasing fiber weight fraction up to 50wt% increased the composite static tensile and flexural mechanical properties (stiffness and strength). Composite thermal stability, water uptake and biodegradation improved with increasing fiber content. The present work shows that starch-based composites with 50wt% fibers content have the optimum mechanical properties. The hybrid composite of flax and date palm fibers, 25wt% each, has good properties and provides a competitive eco-friendly candidate for various applications.