Journal of Natural Fibers (Jan 2019)

Low-density polyethylene/sugarcane fiber composites from recycled polymer and treated fiber by steam explosion

  • Guilherme Luis Ribeiro,
  • Meirene Gandara,
  • Diego David Pinzón Moreno,
  • Clodoaldo Saron

DOI
https://doi.org/10.1080/15440478.2017.1379044
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 16, no. 1
pp. 13 – 24

Abstract

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Low-density polyethylene (LDPE) has caused serious environmental damages, and it has been a challenge for waste management in large cities. The LDPE recycling as composites with natural fibers such as sugarcane fibers (SCF) has been an interesting alternative to conciliate economic aspects with environmental benefits. In this study, SCF has been treated by steam explosion and incorporated to low-density polyethylene waste (LDPEW) to generate LDPEW/SCF composites with higher fiber/polymer interaction and improved mechanical properties. LDPEW/SCF composites with fibers content until 20 wt% showed mechanical properties with performance adequate for nobler applications when compared to the isolated recycled LDPEW.

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