Lignocellulose-polyethylene composite: influence of delignification, filler content and filler type

Abstract

The present study developed a lignocellulose-polyethylene composite, using date palm annual pruning residue, such as rachis or leaflet, as filler and investigated the effects of filler content and type on the physical and mechanical properties of the obtained composite. The effect of lignin in the lignocellulosic residue on the properties of the composite was also evaluated. 2% Maleic anhydride modified polyethylene (MAPE) was used as a compatibilizer. It was observed that the increase of filler content caused the decrease of the flexural strength (MOR), tensile strength and impact strength, while increasing flexural modulus (MOE), water absorption and thickness swelling. In general, leaflet flour led to better properties of the composites than rachis flour. Delignified fibers increased the tensile strength, tensile modulus, impact strength, water absorption and thickness swelling of the composite.