Performance of high-density polyethylene–starch–linen fiber biocomposite

Abstract

This study was carried out on the physicochemical and mechanical characterization of a biocomposite consisting of high-density polyethylene (HDPE)/starch matrix reinforced with linen fiber which is renewable, inexpensive and biodegradable material. The linen fibers were modified through the alkaline treatment, and the polymers HDPE and starch were blended without compatibilizers. The composites were fabricated using a two-stage process: mixing and thermocompression. Characterizations were analyzed using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), Izod impact, and tensile strength tests. The FTIR spectra and SEM analysis showed weak compatibility between HDPE and starch. Compared to HDPE, the crystallinity of the HDPE/starch blend was enhanced and the thermal stability was reduced as revealed by ATG and DSC analyses. The mechanical Izod impact and tensile tests revealed improved stiffness and Young’s modulus with decreased impact strength, tensile stress and elongation-at-break. Alternatively, the HDPE/starch/linen fiber biocomposite exhibited better improved mechanical proprieties while maintaining good crystallinity and thermal stability, on account of the high fracture resistance and reinforcement of the linen. The biocomposite with 60% HDPE, 20% starch, and 20% linen fiber can be considered for use in industrial applications such as manufacturing and packaging, in accordance with economic and environmental requirements