Work

Rice Husk Filled PLA/PBAT Composites for Food Containers: Processability, Rheological and Thermal Properties

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: This study explores the potential of using a composite material made of polylactic acid (PLA), polybutylene adipate‐co‐terephthalate (PBAT), and rice husk (RH) as an alternative for food containers. Two blends with 10 wt%–20 wt% of PBAT and four composites with 10 wt%–20 wt% of RH reinforcement are evaluated. The composite is created using an internal mixer and is analyzed using torque vs time mixing curves, melt flow index (MFI), thermogravimetric analysis, and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The blends exhibit higher crystallinity and superior mechanical properties compared to composites. Adding RH improves sustainability and decreases costs by utilizing agricultural waste but reduces flexural strength. However, the addition of PBAT increases flexibility, making it suitable for pliable material applications. The composite CO4 with 20 wt% of PBAT and RH demonstrates balanced performance in terms of lower MFI, thermal stability, and flexural strength, making it suitable for food tray applications. Further studies are needed to optimize the mechanical and barrier properties of these composites for specific applications.

Source: Macromolecular Symposia

DOI: 10.1002/masy.202400093

Authors: Nicole Bohm Agostini, Vanessa Zimmer Kieffer, Ruth Marlene Campomanes Santana

Institution: Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul

Language: English

Topic: Natural Fiber Reinforced Composites

Subfield: Polymers and Plastics

Field: Materials Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Responsible consumption and production

Open Access status: bronze

Funders: Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior, Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico