Mechanical Properties and Biodegradability of the Kenaf/Soy Protein Isolate-PVA Biocomposites

Jong Sung Won,Seung Goo Lee,Da Young Jin,Ji Eun Lee

doi:10.1155/2015/860617

Jong Sung Won, Seung Goo Lee + Show 2 more

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https://doi.org/10.1155/2015/860617

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Abstract

The effective utilization of original natural fibers as indispensable components in natural resins for developing novel, low-cost, eco-friendly biocomposites is one of the most rapidly emerging fields of research in fiber-reinforced composite. The objective of this study is to investigate the interfacial adhesion properties, water absorption, biodegradation properties, and mechanical properties of the kenaf/soy protein isolate- (SPI-) PVA composite. Experimental results showed that 20 wt% poly (vinyl alcohol) (PVA) and 8 wt% glutaraldehyde (GA) created optimum conditions for the consolidation of the composite. The increase of interfacial shear strength enhanced the composites flexural and tensile strength of the kenaf/SPI-PVA composite. The kenaf/SPI-PVA mechanical properties of the composite also increased with the content of cross-linking agent. Results of the biodegradation test indicated that the degradation time of the composite could be controlled by the cross-linking agent. The degradation rate of the kenaf/SPI-PVA composite with the cross-linking agent was lower than that of the composite without the cross-linking agent.

Highlights

Biodegradable polymers that are derived from natural resources are potential substitutes for existing petroleumbased synthetic polymers, owing to their low cost, easy availability, and complete biodegradability [1]
The following results can be concluded from the data: (Figure 6) For the soy protein isolate (SPI)/PVA films without glycerol, tensile strength decreased with the increase of PVA
The kenaf/soy protein isolate- (SPI-)PVA compositeswere prepared with plasticizers and a cross-linking agent

Summary

Introduction

Biodegradable polymers that are derived from natural resources are potential substitutes for existing petroleumbased synthetic polymers, owing to their low cost, easy availability, and complete biodegradability [1]. The low mechanical properties and high moisture sensitivity of soy protein-based plastics have limited their usage [4]. These characteristics are attributed to the inherent hydrophilicity of natural proteins and the amount of hydrophilic plasticizer incorporated into them. Soybean protein contains several amino acids, such as glutamic acid, arginine, lysine, cysteine, and aspartic acids, which have polar groups. These groups can act as useful cross-linking and/or hydrogen bonding sites to improve the mechanical properties of soy protein polymers.

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