Composites from recycled polyethylene and plasma treated kapok fibers

Abstract

In this study, composites from recycled polyethylene and kapok fibers were prepared with fiber contents of 1, 5 and 10 wt%. Cold plasma treatment was applied to the fibers in an attempt to improve fiber/matrix adhesion. The characterization of plasma treated fibers indicated modification in chemical composition and water and oil uptake, as compared to untreated fibers. The addition of plasma treated fibers to the polymer promoted a reduction in the steady-state torque during mixing. In addition, the thermal conductivity of composites was reduced as the amount of fibers increased. Dynamic mechanical thermal analyses of composites with plasma-treated fibers indicated an increase in storage moduli, as well as an increase in glass transition temperature as compared to the pure polymer. Images of fractured surfaces show fibers well connected to the matrix suggesting good fiber/matrix adhesion. Thus, cold plasma is demonstrated as a viable non-polluting alternative to activate cellulosic fibers and improve fiber/matrix interface in polymer composites.