Characterization of High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) Reinforced with Banana Peel Fibers

Author(s)

Fernandes Pereira, Paulo Henrique ^[1] ; Carvalho Benini, Kelly Cristina C. ^[1] ; Watashi, Cintia Yumi ^[1] ; Cornelis Voorwald, Herman Jacobus ^[1] ; Hilario Cioffi, Maria Odila ^[1]

Affiliation

^[1] UNESP Univ Estadual Paulista, Dept Mat & Technol, Guaratingueta, SP - Brazil

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: BIORESOURCES; v. 8, n. 2, p. 2351-2365, 2013.
• Web of Science Citations: 10

Abstract

Lignocellulosic fibers from banana peels were washed with water in order to increase their compatibility with a polymeric matrix, and their properties were compared with unwashed fibers. Washed banana fibers were mixed with high density polyethylene (HDPE) and placed in an injector chamber to produce specimens for tensile tests. Samples of washed banana fibers/HDPE composites were characterized by tensile tests and thermal analysis. The chemical composition of unwashed and washed banana fibers was analyzed by thermogravimetric analysis, scanning electron microscopy, and X-ray diffraction. The treatment with water was effective at removing extractives and increasing the surface roughness, thereby increasing the thermal stability of the fibers. However, results showed that the addition of washed banana fibers decreased the thermal stability of composites, while increasing the melting and crystallization temperatures of composites. The addition of 5 wt% fibers also provided an improvement in mechanical properties of composites in comparison with pure HDPE. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 06/06740-2 - Preparation and characterization of hybrid from sugarcane bagasse / NbOPO4.nH2O and its application in membranes as filter element
• Grantee: Paulo Henrique Fernandes Pereira
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Doctorate