(566e) Thermo-Mechanical Analysis of Thermoplastic Biocomposites

Thermoplastic biocomposites are gaining interest in commercial applications because of their mechanical performance at reduced cost and density as compared to synthetic-fiber-reinforced composites. The long-term durability and heat resistance of thermoplastic biocomposites is dependent on the constituents, applied loads, and environmental influence. The constituent makeup of the lignocellulosic components dictates the effectiveness of the filler in contributing to several functionalities in commercial applications.

This analysis is an investigation of the effects of filler loading level, interfacial modifiers, and the fraction of semi-structural lignocellulosic components on the heat deflection and creep response of the biocomposites. Polypropylene- and ABS-based biocomposite combinations are assessed for their long-term mechanical properties and sustained thermal resistance.

The lignocellulosic fillers used in this study are co-products of different agricultural processes and are fractionated for dispersion-compounding with the thermoplastic matrix using extrusion. The pelletized compound is injection molded as test specimens. The thermomechanical response is critically discussed and correlated with compositional changes brought about by the fillers and hybridization thereof.