Eco-friendly foam biocomposites based on cellulose extracted from date palm leaves and low-density polyethylene

Abstract

The design of composite materials using environmentally compatible materials and adopting sustainable preparation techniques are highly required for a better environment. The present study is a step towards developing an environment friendly alternative to foam-based composites. The aim of the study is to know the effect of natural fibers from date palm on the property of foam biocomposites. We adopted an env ronment friendly method of compatibilization between the polymer and the fibers for tter reinforcement. The compatibility was done by environment-friendly physical modification using plasma treatment. Plasma treatment provides surface modification a d this is an economical solution for further processing. In fact three types of interfaces have been created: 1) by the addition of maleic anhydride, 2) use of plasma trea LDPE, 3) the combination of maleic anhydride and plasma. The overall perform nce was the best by the use of plasma treatment alone. The effect was carefully nalyzed based on the morphological, mechanical and thermal studies. Finally, morphology-property correlation was established