Production and characterization of recycled low-density polyethylene/amazon palm fiber composites

Abstract

The research aimed to evaluate the effects of different contents of jupati particles on the properties of composites with a matrix of recycled low-density polyethylene (LDPE). The composites were produced with 0%, 5%, 10% and 15% of jupati particles inserted in the LDPE matrix, and the moisture, bulk density, water absorption, flammability and mechanical resistance were determined. The inclusion of the lignocellulosic material caused an increase in the density, indicating absence of pores, and in the other properties of the composites, except the modulus of rupture. These results were related to its chemical characteristics and the low interaction with the matrix, which can be verified in the scanning electron microscopy images. The work results are interesting and propitiate the development of further questions related to the production parameters, different particle sizes and use of compatibilizing agents to verify the possible effects on the composites.