Water Absorption and Tensile Properties of Hemp Waste and Polyethylene Composites

This research focuses on improving the mechanical properties of linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE) composites reinforced with hemp waste and reducing water absorption. Cross-linking is introduced between the filler and the polymeric matrix. Cleaning the filler surface of dusts with alkali pre-treatment promotes an increase of the aforementioned properties. Hemp waste pre-treatment with TEOS and modified sols decrease composite water absorption and elongation at break, but silanization increase elastic module. The choice of different silanes for the treatment of hemp waste and treatment method affects the properties of composite.