Tensile properties of low density polypropylene (LDPE)/palm kernel shell (PKS) biocomposites: The effect of acrylic acid (AA)

Abstract

The surface of palm kernel was modified by acrylic acid (AA). Low density polyethylene (LDPE) was filled by palm kernel shell at various 0, 10, 20, 30 and 40 php. The effect of AA as a coupling agent on LDPE/PKS biocomposites on tensile properties and morphology was investigated. The results show that the increasing of filler content decreased the tensile strength and break elongation but increased the Young's modulus. The presence of AA indicates higher tensile strength and Young's modulus but lower elongation at break compared to untreated LDPE/PKS biocomposites. The scanning electron microscope study show that the better interfacial interaction between palm kernel shell and low density polyethylene with addition of AA.