Commercialization of Wheat Straw as Reinforcing Filler for Commodity Thermoplastics

Abstract

Thermoplastic biocomposites from various agro-fibers have been prepared and marketed for their advantages over conventional petroleum-based composite products. In this study, we explored the advantages and commercial viability of using wheat straw as filler for thermoplastic composites. The operational cost involved in filler preparation by both refining and grinding processes was discussed. The wheat straw was refined to get both fiber and wheat stalk flour for composite preparation. Composites of thermoplastic filled with wheat straw were prepared and their mechanical properties were evaluated and compared with those of wood flour and grinded wheat flour composites. The thermal flow, and water absorption properties of the composites were also evaluated. Colored pigments were used in the composites, and their effects on the properties were studied. Wheat straw filler–reinforced polymer composites exhibited comparable mechanical properties with that of wood flour composites. Economic analysis was done to ensure that the use of wheat flour produced by grinding processes will reduce the production cost of wheat-thermoplastic pellets significantly.