The Rape Pomace and Microcrystalline Cellulose Composites Made by Press Processing

Abstract

This paper presents the results of research on biocomposites resulting from the combination of post-extraction rapeseed meal (RP) and microcrystalline cellulose (MCC). The products were fabricated using a press machine with a mould heating system. The biocomposites were then subjected to stress tests, their surface wettability was determined and color analyses were conducted. Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), a cross-section observed by scanning electron microscope (SEM) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) were used to examine the structure and thermomechanical properties of the material obtained. The research results showed that an increase in the share of MCC to 8% and increasing the process temperature to 140 • C improved the strength parameters of the products obtained, as well as their thermal resistance. It was also found that the wettability of products was affected both by process temperature and addition of cellulose; similar wettability results were obtained for MCC 8% (120 • C) and MCC 2% (140 • C). Photographs taken using a scanning electron microscope revealed that the biocomposite surface was the smoothest in the case of materials fabricated under the highest process temperature and with the highest MCC proportion.

Digitization, Digital Twins, Blockchain, and Industry 4.0 as Elements of Management Process in Enterprises in the Energy Sector

“…There are some ways of solving conflicting goals in creating an industrial economy, including the following: (a) redesigning existing products and processes for their production, so as to reduce the material and energy requirements for their production. Such activities are usually aimed at reducing production costs and at the same time reducing the energy consumption of production processes [92]. A good example is the digital advancement used in the operation of a power plant, which can increase service life by up to 30% [93].…”

Examining Generation Z’s Attitudes, Behavior and Awareness Regarding Eco-Products: A Bayesian Approach to Confirmatory Factor Analysis

“…Newer approaches to eco-product design emphasize cradle-to-cradle design and circular economy approach [29]. Some examples include the use of biodegradable plastics [30] as well as biodegradable composite materials [31], which are still to be scaled from laboratory pilot studies to widespread usage on the way to truly circular economy. Some other examples include LED lighting solutions for efficient electricity use [32], efficient jeans production (less water usage by water recycling, eco-friendly dies) and recycling as well as repair service possibilities [33].…”

Wheat Biocomposite Extraction, Structure, Properties and Characterization: A Review

“…It has been found that proteins rich in sulfur amino acids, particularly rapeseed proteins when combined with rubber, cause a substantial enhancement of the cross-linking process. Protein-rich composites have a higher thermal resistance due to the high number of nitrogen atoms in a single polypeptide molecule [124].…”

“…Therefore, in order to improve the mechanical, water-barrier, thermal and physical properties of plasticized wheat-gluten-based materials, natural and synthetic fibers were introduced. This is undertaken in order to find new balances between process needs and material stiffness preferences [222,240,241] The addition of protein in biocomposite as a component improves their mechanical properties [124].…”