Effects of Silane‐Modified Potato Waste Content on Potato Waste/PBAT Biocomposites

Plastic pollution poses a significant threat to the environment and human health, prompting the search for sustainable alternatives. Poly(butylene adipate‐co‐terephthalate) (PBAT), as a biodegradable material, offers a solution to replace polyolefin plastic. In this study, the effects of silane‐modified potato waste (M‐PW) content on the interfacial and physical properties of PBAT composites were investigated. Results indicate that increasing M‐PW content deepens the color of the composites. FTIR analysis confirms successful grafting of the silane coupling agent γ‐aminopropyl triethoxysilane (KH550) onto potato waste, with the composites forming a physical mixture of the two phases. M‐PW exerts complex effects on mechanical properties: tensile strength first decreases and then increases, while impact strength declines continuously. Incorporating M‐PW reduces the thermal stability of PBAT but enhances the composites' crystallization and melting properties, as well as their hydrophobicity. XRD analysis reveals that M‐PW lowers the composites' crystallinity without altering the crystal structure of PBAT. SEM images demonstrate poor adhesion between high‐load M‐PW and the PBAT matrix. This study highlights the potential of agricultural waste in biodegradable plastics, but further research is required to improve M‐PW dispersion and compatibility within the PBAT matrix, thereby enhancing mechanical performance.