International Journal of Automotive and Mechanical Engineering · 2015 · 11 citations · 20 references
Natural SciencesMaterials EngineeringMaterials ScienceBiomaterialsMechanical Behavior Of MaterialsPolymer EngineeringBio-based MaterialsBiodegradable PolymersBiodegradationRadiation UseRadiation-resistant MaterialsRenewable MaterialsBiodegradable MaterialsElectron Beam Irradiation EffectsIrradiation EffectsRadiation-induced DegradationRadiation-resistant PolymersRadiation-tolerant PolymersTensile StrengthWater Absorption
The present work deals with the utilization of oil palm mesocarp fibre (OPMF) andpoly(butylene succinate) (PBS) to produce cost-effective biodegradable materials. Thebiocomposite was prepared from OPMF and PBS at a weight ratio of 70:30 via a meltblending technique without addition of any additive. This biocomposite showedrelatively low tensile and water resistance properties. As a consequence, it wassubjected to electron beam irradiation (EBI) treatment under various irradiation dosagesranging from 5–25 kGy, aiming at improving both its tensile properties and its waterresistance. The results indicated that the biocomposite irradiated with 25 kGy of applieddosage showed a considerable improvement of 50% in tensile strength, 780% in tensilemodulus and 38% in elongation at break. The water absorption and thickness swellingof the biocomposites were reduced after EBI treatment. The scanning electronmicroscopy showed improvement of the interfacial adhesion between OPMF and PBSafter EBI treatment.
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