Influence of processing parameters on the impact strength of biocomposites: A statistical approach

Injection molded biocomposites from a new biodegradable polymer blend based matrix system and miscanthus natural fibers were successfully fabricated and characterized. The blend matrix, a 40:60 wt% blend of poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate), PBAT and poly(butylene succinate), PBS was chosen based on their required engineering properties for the targeted biocomposite uses. A big scientific challenge of biocomposites is in improving impact strength within the desired tensile and flexural properties. The stiffness–toughness balance is one of the biggest scientific hurdles in natural fiber composites. Thus, the key aspect of the present study was in investigating an in-depth statistical approach on influence of melt processing parameters on the impact strength of the biocomposite. A full factorial experimental design was used to predict the statistically significant variables on the impact strength of the PBS/PBAT/miscanthus biocomposites. Among the selected processing parameters, fiber length has a most significant effect on the impact strength of the biocomposites.