Abstract
Abstract This study aims to evaluate the effects of natural weathering in the city of Teresina, State of Piaui, Brazil, on the morphology and mechanical properties of eco-composites based on high-density green polyethylene, powdered cork and compatibilizer processed in a twin-screw extruder and injection molded. The analyses revealed that although weathering induced surface bleaching of eco-composites and cracking, these effects were not intense in the compatibilized samples. The tensile properties of the investigated materials were affected by abiotic degradation, which led to a reduction of the tensile strength and elastic deformation of the eco-composites, however, the incorporation of PEgMA was fundamental for the maintenance of mechanical performance after natural aging. In general, the results obtained were satisfactory for external applications of the compatibilized eco-composite with 15% cork in the proposed weathering range, which indicates its possible use in temporary constructions.
Highlights
The construction industry is the second-largest consumer of plastics in the world[1], as it exploits and takes into account the lightness and durability of these materials[2]
Tensile strength and elastic deformation of the eco-composites, the incorporation of PEgMA was fundamental for the maintenance of mechanical performance after natural aging
The main factor is the presence of chromophore groups in both polymer and lignin, which are responsible for the absorption of ultraviolet light (UV), intensifying sample photodegradation[8,22]
Summary
The construction industry is the second-largest consumer of plastics in the world[1], as it exploits and takes into account the lightness and durability of these materials[2]. An alternative to polymer applications in the construction industry in a sustainable way is through the production of composites reinforced by plant material, as they are advantageous in terms of weight, cost, strength, recyclability, and ease of maintenance[3,4] Many of these applications are intended for external use and the stability of the polymeric composites, when exposed to weathering, is reduced. The combined effects ultraviolet solar radiation, moisture, and temperature oscillation can lead to matrix photodegradation and embrittlement as well as the fast degradation of vegetable fiber components (cellulose, hemicellulose, lignin, and extractives) These combined effects are deleterious to fiber/matrix adhesion and, to effective filler/matrix load transfer, reducing composite mechanical properties as well as changing product appearance[5,6,7]. Contributing factors for this reduction include changes in matrix crystallinity, composite surface oxidation and interfacial degradation[8,9,10]
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