Green Composites Based on High-Density Polyethylene and Saccharum spontaneum: Effect of Filler Content on Morphology, Thermal, and Mechanical Properties

摘要

Here we report the preparation and characterization of a green composite based on high-density polyethylene and Kaans grass (Saccharum spontaneum). The composites were prepared by conventional melt-mixing method, using maximum loading of Kaans grass in powder form (KG-filler) to achieve acceptable range of required properties. Maleic anhydride grafted polyethylene was used as compatibilizer to achieve effective interaction for improved surface adhesion which was confirmed by FT-IR spectroscopy. Morphological studies revealed good interaction between the base polymer matrices and the KG-fillers that improved the mechanical and thermal properties of the composites up to certain (10 phr) KG-filler loading. Study on water absorption property revealed moderate increase in weight at higher KG-filler loadings. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and melt flow index (MFI) studies indicated retention of thermal stability and flow property of the HDPE/KG-filler composite at lower filler loadings. (C) 2014 Society of Plastics Engineers