Preparation and Characterization of Cassava Fiber-Based Polypropylene and Polybutylene Succinate Composites

Abstract

Cassava root fiber was used as a bio-reinforcement in a polymer composite. A composite of polypropylene (PP) and polybutylene succinate (PBS) with cassava root fiber was prepared on a twinscrew extrusion. Maleic anhydride-polypropylene (MAPP) compatibilizer was used to improve the interfacial strength between the fibers and the polymer matrix. The effects of untreated fiber content and compatibilizer on the mechanical properties of composite were investigated. An increase in fiber loading increased the Young’s modulus and flexural modulus, indicating higher stiffness in the fiber-filled composites, whereas the tensile strength and flexural strength decreased. The addition of MAPP compatibilizer in the PP composite with 50% fibers improved the flexural strength to a higher level than pure PP, therefore giving rise to a stronger but less flexible material. Studies with a scanning electron microscope revealed better interfacial adhesion between the fibers and the polymer matrix in the composite containing MAPP compatibilizer. Thermogravimetric analysis showed that the thermal stability and degradation temperature of PP composites increased with the presence of MAPP, suggesting enhanced interfacial interaction and compatibility due to the treatment of compatibilizer.