Fabrication and Characterisation of PP/TS Biocomposites

Abstract

Biocomposites are eco-friendly composite materials formed by the combination of any polymer matrix and the reinforcement of any natural fiber. This particular composite is gaining more attention in research field in order to reduce the utilization of inorganic fillers in the reinforcement of thermoplastics and biodegradable plastics. In this study, we used various amounts of turmeric spent (TS) viz, 5%, 7%, 10%, 15%, 20% and 25% (w/w) for the fabrication of Polypropylene/TS composites. These various composition mixtures are blended and melt on a Haake mixer, then it is placed over a compression mould of 2mm thickness and forms composite films of different composition. The developed composites were characterized using different techniques such as scanning electron microscopy, contact angle measurement and water absorption. SEM images clearly shows the presence of TS content in biocomposites. From contact angle measurement, it is clear that the 7% PP/TS composite shows better hydrophobic nature. From absorption measurement technique, the higher composition samples show better absorption capacity due to the presence of OH-group within the turmeric spent.