Abstract
In this paper, the production and the characterization of poly (lactic) acid (PLA)-based composites containing different amounts (from 10 wt.% to 25 wt.%) of ultra-short cellulose fibers (Arbocel 600 BE/PU) have been investigated. On the basis of a previous study, it was observed that the addition of the cellulose fibers led to an embrittlement of the composite. Consequently, in order to obtain a composite with enhanced impact resistance and elongation at break, the effect of the Einar 101 addition (a bio-based dispersing aid additive) was analyzed. The role of the adhesion between the fiber and the matrix, coupled with a better fiber dispersion, was thus evaluated. Also, the consequences on the final mechanical properties (tensile and impact test) caused by the Einar addition were investigated. Analytical models were also applied in order to obtain an evaluation of the variation of the interfacial shear stress (IFSS) (strictly correlated to the fiber-matrix adhesion) caused by the Einar introduction. Furthermore, due to the very low aspect ratio of the Arbocel fibers, a suitable Bader and Boyer model variation was adopted in order to have a better quantitative estimation of the IFSS value.
Highlights
In this century, remarkable steps forward have been made in the field of “green polymer science”
Analytical models were applied in order to obtain an evaluation of the variation of the interfacial shear stress (IFSS) caused by the Einar introduction
Biocomposites are an ecological, and a low-cost alternative, especially were the natural fibers derive from industrial and/or agricultural wastes and they can be valorized [6,7]. It is evident how the investigation of different biocomposites systems is of actual interest, as demonstrated by different reviews present in the literature [8,9,10,11,12]
Summary
Remarkable steps forward have been made in the field of “green polymer science”. Thanks to the composites’ ability to show superior thermo-mechanical properties compared to their individual components, some of the PLA drawbacks before mentioned can be overcome These composites’ features coupled with the current requirement to intensify the use of natural fibers with low added value combined with the easy processability and economy of the final biocomposite material has led to the growth of short-fiber reinforced polymer (SFRP) composites [24,25,26]. This liquid dispersing aid should coat the fibers, guaranteeing a homogeneous dispersion, and at the same time, should decrease the interaction between polymer matrix and the fibers In this way, it should be possible to obtain a SFRP composite containing a high quantity of fibers and at the same time, improve the final ductility and impact resistance of the material. To estimate the IFSS value, the B-B models (the classical version and the modified ones) were adopted, and it has been shown how for the case of ultra-short fiber composites, it is convenient to use the modified approach of the B-B model
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