Palm kernel shell (PKS)-filled low-density polyethylene (LDPE) composites was studied. The polyethylene co-acrylic acid (PEAA) was used as compatibilizer. The tensile properties, thermal analysis, water absorption, and morphology of LDPE/PKS composites were investigated. The results show that increasing of PKS loading have decreased the tensile strength and elongation at break but Young's modulus and water absorption of composites increased. The higher tensile properties (such as tensile strength and Young's modulus) and lower water absorption with addition of compatibilizer was due to the improvement in the filler-matrix interaction and adhesion of composites as evidence from scanning electron microscopy studies. The presence of PEAA also increased the crystallinity of LDPE/PKS composites.

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View the article online for updates and enhancements. Abstract The surface of palm kernel was modified by acrylic acid (AA). Low density polyethylene (LDPE) was filled by palm kernel shell at various 0, 10, 20, 30 and 40 php. The effect of AA as a coupling agent on LDPE/PKS biocomposites on tensile properties and morphology was investigated. The results show that the increasing of filler content decreased the tensile strength and break elongation but increased the Young's modulus. The presence of AA indicates higher tensile strength and Young's modulus but lower elongation at break compared to untreated LDPE/PKS biocomposites. The scanning electron microscope study show that the better interfacial interaction between palm kernel shell and low density polyethylene with addition of AA.

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