Compatibilização de compósitos de PEBD reforçados com o bagaço da cana-de-açúcar

Abstract

The interest in the polymeric composites use of vegetal fibers occurs because they present themselves as potential substitutes for the synthetic fibers in specific applications, standing out for its environmental and economic appeal. Among the natural fibers, sugarcane bagasse fibers stand out by their great availability in Brazilian soil, so that, as a reinforcement in thermoplastic matrices, their final destination becomes an interesting technological and economically favorable possibility. The different chemical and physical characteristics inherent to the thermoplastic matrix material and the cellulosic fiber makes the compatibility of these materials a challenge. However, the application of fiber-matrix compatibilization methods, can viable this material production. Thus, the present work analyzes the influence of different compatibilizing agent contents on low density polyethylene composites reinforced with 20% (w/w) of the sugarcane bagasse fibers. The presence of the compatibilizer was essential with respect to the mechanical properties of the material, resulting in a 51% increase in tensile strength when 2% compatibilizing agent was applied.