Development and Characterization of Pigeon Pea Stalk Fiber Reinforced Polylactic Acid Sustainable Composites

Abstract

ABSTRACT This study focuses on the development and characterization of pigeon pea stalk fiber (PSF) reinforced (10, 20, 30, and 40 wt.%) polylactic acid (PLA) sustainable composites. In particular, the tensile, compression, flexural, impact, shear strength, and hardness characteristics were studied as mechanical properties, while other characterizations included dynamic mechanical analysis, density, water absorption, crystallinity index, and morphology studies were also examined to get a more comprehensive understanding of these green composites. From the results of mechanical properties, the optimal particle loading was up to 30 wt.%, and these properties compare well with other green composites. They could be used as an alternative to natural fiber-based composites for secondary load-bearing applications in various sectors like indoor, packaging, furniture, automobile interiors, etc. The addition of PSFs (30 wt.%) into the PLA matrix increased the storage modulus by 28%. A significant improvement in crystallinity was also found in these green composites. In addition, all composites up to 30 wt.% PSFs exhibited good resistance to water absorption and had a maximum water intake of 5.25%. Morphological studies revealed good adhesion and distribution of PSFs in the PLA matrix.