Thermoplastic Elastomer Biocomposites Filled with Cereal Straw Fibers Obtained with Different Processing Methods—Preparation and Properties

Abstract

This work is focused on thermoplastic elastomers composites (TPEs) reinforced with straw. Crop waste with different particle size was used as a filler of ethylene-octene rubber (EOR). Application of cheap and renewable natural fiber like straw into a TPE medium is not fully recognized and explored. The effect of fiber orientation induced by two processing techniques on the different mechanical properties of composites was investigated. Microscopic images were used to present the tested straw fractions and observe the arrangement and dispersion of fibers in the polymer matrix. It was found that the usage of an injection molding process allowed for the forming of a more homogenous dispersion of short fiber particles in the elastomer matrix. An oriented straw filler and polymer chains resulted in the improved mechanical strength of the whole system as evidenced by the obtained values of tensile strength almost two times higher for injected composites. In addition, all composites showed very good resistance to thermo-oxidative aging, where the aging factor oscillated within the limits of one, regardless of the processing method and the amount of bioadditive used. On the other hand, vulcanized composites were characterized by greater tear resistance, for which Fmit values increased by up to 600% compared to the reference sample.

Gamma irradiation influence on mechanical, thermal and conductivity properties of hybrid carbon nanotubes/montmorillonite nanocomposites

“…TPEs have become the most rapidly increasing segment in the polymer industry. This significantly growing area provides an important business opportunity for individuals who can capitalize on the capabilities of this class of materials ( Miedzianowska et al, 2019 ). The requirements for TPEs in various areas of industrial activity drive researchers to apply new solutions to meet their expectations.…”

Effect of Gear Pump Extrusion Processing on the Properties of Fiber Reinforced Rubber Composites

“…The processing of short fiber reinforced rubber composite is significantly important, which may receive a better dispersion of fibers, a high aspect ratio during processing and controlling the orientation 2 of 14 in the desired direction for application [13]. There have been many researches on the processing technology of short fiber rubber composite [14][15][16][17][18].…”

“…Polymers 2020, 12, x FOR PEER REVIEW 2 of 14 orientation in the desired direction for application [13]. There have been many researches on the processing technology of short fiber rubber composite [14][15][16][17][18].…”

Thermoplastic Elastomeric Composites Filled with Lignocellulose Bioadditives, Part 2: Flammability, Thermo-Oxidative Aging Resistance, Mechanical and Barrier Properties

“…Problems with the management of used plastics and the limited resources of substrates for their production meant that countless scientists are trying to replace them, at least in part, with materials of natural origin, creating, for example, biocomposites. Although natural fibers are one of the fastest growing polymer additives, the use of straw as a filler is still a relatively new and scientifically attractive idea [19][20][21][22].…”