Physicochemical analysis of linear low-density polyethylene composite films containing chemically treated rice husk

A study was conducted to determine the appropriate surface treatment for rice husks (RH) in polymer composite film to improve the physical properties relative to those of untreated RH/linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) film. Pulverized RH was treated with NaOH (RH-m) and acetic acid (RH-ac) to prepare composite films with LLDPE resin. The treated RH showed typical mercerization and acetylation, as confirmed by spectroscopic and thermal analysis methods. The RH-m sample was mercerized, allowing decomposition of hemicellulose and partially amorphous cellulose. The RH-ac sample was processed via acetylation inducing partial lignin decomposition. Field-emission scanning electron microscopy showed smaller gaps at the RH/LLDPE interface for RH-m and RH-ac compared to that with untreated RH, implying increased composite compatibility. RH-m in particular showed superior tensile strength (15.85 N/mm2), elongation (884%), Young’s modulus (60.01 N/mm2), and tear strength (7.71N/mm2) compared to untreated RH and RH-ac.