Abstract
The global ban on plastics and the COVID-2019 epidemic have accelerated the demand for eco-friendly disposable dishware. As an alternative to plastic, the characterization of low-cost, widely-sourced, and sustainable plant fibers for degradable, eco-friendly dishware is urgently needed. In this study, bamboo fiber dishware (BFD) and poly lactic acid (PLA) dishware were investigated by exploring how the properties of their microstructures affect their mechanical properties. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) were used to characterize the thermal decomposition behavior and dynamic viscoelasticity of both dishware types. Their modulus reductions were predicted using the accelerating creep mode, according to the time-temperature equivalence principle. The results showed that (1) the eco-friendly BFD was light weight and strong. Its specific strength, specific modulus were 4.50 and 3.09 times higher than those of PLA dishware, respectively. The efficient three-dimensional structure formed by the bamboo fibers and held together by hydrogen bonding played an important role in maintaining the excellent physical and mechanical properties. (2) The BFD and PLA dishware exhibited glass transition temperatures of 63.2 °C and 54.7 °C, respectively, according to the loss modulus curves, and their activation energies were 70.76 kJ/mol and 132.53 kJ/mol, respectively. Compared to the PLA dishware, the thermal decomposition behavior and storage modulus of the BFD were showed a lower sensitivity to temperature. (3) The time-temperature principle could be applied to the long-term creep prediction of BFD and PLA dishware. It showed that BFD exhibited a greater creep resistance in protecting food. • BFD’s specific strength and modulus were 4.50 and 3.09 times higher than PLA. • BFD could maintain high storage modulus at high temperature than PLA. • BFD had better creep resistance than PLA after a long time.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
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 callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
