Influence of Alkali-Treated Hemp Stem Fiber on the Structure, Properties, and Soil Biodegradation of Poly(butylene succinate)/Poly(lactic acid) Biocomposites
Randomized trial investigates the effects of alkali-treated hemp fiber on mechanical properties and biodegradation in biocomposites, suggesting improved sustainability benefits.
Key Points
This study aims to explore how alkali-treated hemp stem fiber affects the properties and biodegradation of PBS/PLA biocomposites.
PBS/PLA biocomposites created at fixed ratios of 90/10 and 80/20 wt.% with 5-20 phr alkali-treated hemp fiber.
Hemp fibers treated with 5 wt.% NaOH, compounded with blends using an internal mixer at 190 °C, and fabricated via hot compression molding.
Biocomposite properties evaluated through mechanical testing, thermal analysis, and soil burial tests.
The highest Young's modulus achieved was 306 MPa for the 80/20/15 composition, a 71% increase over neat PBS.
Maximum flexural strength of 48 MPa for 90/10/20 composition and flexural modulus of 1377 MPa for 80/20/20, with enhancements of 21% and 77% respectively.
Soil burial tests confirmed increased weight loss with higher HSF content, indicating improved biodegradation.