Abstract

In this work is proposed the use of starch gum (SG) as a coupling agent for polymer matrix composites (virgin and recycled) reinforce with wood flour. The coupling agent is prepared using an aqueous starch solution containing 3 and 5 %wt. forming a coating over the reinforcement, and compared with maleic anhydride grafted (MAPP), a usual coupling agent. The starch gum coating characterization indicates that 5%wt. presents more cohesive coating on the reinforcement. The mechanical properties of the composites also indicate that 5 %wt. produces higher properties than 3 %wt. The starch coupling agent presents a lower performance compared to MAPP for the virgin polymer; however, for the recycled polymer, it increases the elastic modulus in 37%, overcoming MAPP. Computational tomography indicates that the starch gum promotes compatible interaction at the interface with a low formation of empty spaces in the recycled polymer, indicating that it can be an exciting alternative to produce low-cost composites with eco-friendly solutions.

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