Abstract
In this study, peppermint (Mentha piperita L.), German chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla L.) and yarrow (Achillea millefolium L.) were applied as natural fibrous fillers to create biocomposites containing substances of plant origin. The purpose of the work was to investigate the activity and effectiveness of selected plants as a material for the modification of natural rubber composites. This research was the first approach to examine the usefulness of peppermint, German chamomile and yarrow in the field of polymer technology. Dried and ground plant particles were subjected to Fourier transmission infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and UV–Vis spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), goniometric measurements (contact angle) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The characterization of natural rubber composites filled with bio-additives was performed including rheometric measurements, FTIR, TGA, cross-linking density, mechanical properties and colour change after simulated aging processes. Composites filled with natural fillers showed improved barrier properties and mechanical strength. Moreover, an increase in the cross-linking density of the materials before and after the simulated aging processes, compared to the reference sample, was observed.
Highlights
Broad application of biocomposites in polymer materials processing and production was noticed over the last decades [1,2,3,4]
Biocompatibility applies to the selected reinforcement, which often comes from renewable sources
Composites filled with Matricaria chamomilla L. demonstrated the lowest resistance to the degradation conditions
Summary
Broad application of biocomposites in polymer materials processing and production was noticed over the last decades [1,2,3,4]. This trend occurs due to the multiple benefits related to the biocomposites production methods as well as their exploitation potential and ease of disposal [4,5]. Natural rubber is a frequently used matrix for biocomposites since it is the only elastomer of natural origin with high availability and processing possibilities. It is used in polymer technology for the production of automotive parts, coated fabrics, belts, cables, rubber products, etc. Further research aims to find and characterize a type of natural filler that is cheap, widely available and has a strengthening effect on natural rubberbased biocomposite
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