Effect of Agave Americana fibers content on morphology and mechanical, rheological, and thermal properties of poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyhexanoate) biocomposites

Abstract

Green biocomposites based on poly (3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyhexanoate) (PHBHHx) reinforced with Agave Americana fibers (AAF) were elaborated by melt compounding at various fiber content ratios, that is, 10, 20, and 30 wt.%. Morphology before and after tensile testing, rheological, viscoelastic, mechanical, and thermal properties of the biocomposite samples were investigated with respect to the AAF content. Tensile and DMA data showed a significant increase in both Young’s modulus and storage modulus of PHBHHx biocomposites with the AAF content, however, more relevant at 30 wt.%. However, a slight decrease in tensile strength and strain at break was observed, while thermal stability remained almost unchanged whatever the AAF content. The study highlighted the reinforcement effect of AAF in PHBHHx biocomposite materials, in particular at filler content of 30 wt. %.

Polymer blends of poly(lactic acid) and starch for the production of films applied in food packaging: A brief review

“…Consequently, the manufacture of polymers from renewable sources has become an attractive solution, and over the years it has shown exponential growth towards sustainability. [120][121][122][123][124][125][126] Polymers are materials that present great diversity and versatility and, for this reason, provide technological advances, energy-saving and other benefits to society through the production of a wide range of products. [127][128][129] It is well-known that there is a growing awareness of the use of eco-friendly polymers for food packaging applications.…”