Bio-composites based on cellulosic fibers from agro-industrial waste filled PP matrix: production and properties

The aim of this work is the valorisation of bagasse cane by-product for the development of a new bio-composite based on Polypropylene (PP) reinforced with different cellulose derivatives. In this study, the effect of fiber's chemical surface treatments on the thermal and mechanical performance of PP was investigated, in particular, a comparison between three chemical treatments (alkali, bleaching, and coupling agent). Bio-composite materials were prepared using twin-screw extrusion followed by injection molding by mixing PP pellet with 5 to 10 Wt.% of raw bagasse cane (RBC), alkali bagasse cane (ABC) and cellulose microfibers (CMF), as well as CMF with Styrene-(ethylene-butene)-styrene three-block co-polymer grafted with maleic anhydride (SEBS-g-MA) as coupling agent. Overall, the thermal analysis reveals that the addition of fibers reduces the thermal stability of the reinforced PP. The mechanical results show an improvement in the values of Yung's modulus, tensile strength and hardness of the reinforced PP compared to neat PP. However, a remarkable decrease was obtained in elongation at break and toughness for all reinforced composites compared to neat PP. These findings clearly show the advantages in the use of thermoplastic matrix reinforced with cellulosic fibers.