Abstract
The present works focuses on the development of a novel fully bio-based composite using a bio-based high-density polyethylene (Bio-HDPE) obtained from sugar cane as matrix and a by-product of extraction of chia seed oil (CO) as filler, with the objective of achieving a circular economy model. The research aims to revalorize an ever-increasing waste stream produced by the growing interest in vegetable oils. From the technical point of view, the chia seed flour (CSF) was chemically modified using a silane treatment. This treatment provides a better interfacial adhesion as was evidenced by the mechanical and thermal properties as well as field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM). The effect of silane treatment on water uptake and disintegration rate was also studied. On the other hand, in a second stage, an optimization of the percentage of treated CSF used as filler was carried out by a complete series of mechanical, thermal, morphological, colour, water absorption and disintegration tests with the aim to evaluate the new composite developed using chia by-products. It is noteworthy as the disintegration rate increased with the addition of CSF filler, which leads to obtain a partially biodegradable wood plastic composite (WPC) and therefore, becoming more environmentally friendly.
Highlights
A global polymer production of 368 million tons was recorded in 2019
The extraction method was performed at room temperature for two reasons: firstly, to avoid any chemical changes in the extracted oil that can be induced by high temperatures and to use less energy in the extraction, reducing operation costs
A new composite was obtained from the residual waste remaining after chia seed oil extraction
Summary
A global polymer production of 368 million tons was recorded in 2019. 58 million tons were produced and almost 25% of plastic post-consumer wastes is directly deposited in landfills [1]. The majority of conventional polymers are manufactured from fossil resources and are non-biodegradable. The most used polymers are polypropylene (PP), high- and low-density polyethylene (HDPE and LDPE) and polyvinylchloride (PVC), which represent some 60% of the plastics used [1,2]. Due to the mismanagement of these plastic products, most of which are single-use products, they can end up in landfills, oceans or other terrestrial ecosystems where they can affect wildlife and probably human health [3]. The use of biopolymers could be an excellent proposal for the plastics industry in order to overcome these drawbacks
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
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 call
