Cork waste valorization as reinforcement in high-density polyethylene matrix

Abstract

In this paper, we investigated the use of cork wastes, generated by cork industry in Algeria, as reinforcement in a high density polyethylene matrix. Different formulations with loading rates of 10, 20 and 30 wt%) were elaborated by incorporating a compatibilizing agent (PE-g-AM) to solve the problem of incompatibility between hydrophobic matrix and hydrophilic fiber. Initially HDPE / cork flour composites blend in a calendar before preparing plates having an average thickness of 2 and 3 mm by compression at 190 °C. These were characterized by various techniques: mechanical tests (tensile test, Charpy impact test and Shore D hardness), rheological tests (Melt flow index) and physical characterization (Water absorption).