Utilization of Wood Flour from White Oak Branches as Reinforcement in a Polypropylene Matrix: Physical and Mechanical Characterization

Abstract

Compared to other fibrous materials, plant fibers can act as a reinforcement in plastics due to their relatively high strength and rigidity, low cost, low density, biodegradability, and renewability. In this context, this study examines the effect of the particle size and content of white oak wood flour (Quercus laeta Liemb), obtained from its branches, on the properties of commercial polypropylene. In Mexico, wood from the branches of Quercus laeta Liemb is barely utilized despite its abundance and viability. The main objective of this study is to demonstrate that this waste material can be exploited to prepare useful materials, in this case composites with competitive properties. Tensile and flexural tests, as well as impact strength and melt flow index were evaluated. In addition, density and water absorption capacity were also tested. Results showed that the water absorption increased with the incorporation of wood particles. Mechanical properties were strongly influenced by particle content. A reduction in elongation and strength was observed, while Young’s modulus and flexural modulus increased with the incorporation of wood particles. Impact strength increased with particle size and particle content.

Statistical analysis of the substitution of inorganic fibers and fillers with vegetable fibers and fillers in polystyrene composites

“…The highest density obtained in the samples with fibers was 1.38 g cm −3 for PS 70 GF 30 , and in those with fillers it was 1.26 g cm −3 for PS 70 CC 30 . As also reported by Hernández‐Jiménez et al, 28 the density of the composites depends essentially on the reinforcement content in the thermoplastic matrix; therefore, the greater the amount of fiber, the higher the density of the composite 28 …”

“…The highest density obtained in the samples with fibers was 1.38 g cm À3 for PS 70 GF 30 , and in those with fillers it was 1.26 g cm À3 for PS 70 CC 30 . As also reported by Hern andez-Jiménez et al, 28 the density of the composites depends essentially on the reinforcement content in the thermoplastic matrix; therefore, the greater the amount of fiber, the higher the density of the composite. 28 No statistically significant variations were found in the results of the densities of the composites reinforced with 20 and 30% of WP, which suggests that in the sample with 30% of WP, agglomerates may have been formed, which increase the formation of voids.…”

“…As also reported by Hern andez-Jiménez et al, 28 the density of the composites depends essentially on the reinforcement content in the thermoplastic matrix; therefore, the greater the amount of fiber, the higher the density of the composite. 28 No statistically significant variations were found in the results of the densities of the composites reinforced with 20 and 30% of WP, which suggests that in the sample with 30% of WP, agglomerates may have been formed, which increase the formation of voids. Thus, these results corroborate the data from the mechanical analysis of tensile and flexural strength shown in Table 3, in which a decrease in the tensile and flexural strengths of the sample with 30% WP compared with the sample with 20% WF was observed.…”

Feasibility of Cherry Pit Particles as a Natural Reinforcement in Polypropylene

“…Studies investigating the effect of particle size and filler content on the properties of such wood plastic composites are abundant: examples are the work of Stark and Berger [1], but also Bledzki and Faruk investigated this, besides the influence of coupling agents and processing [2,3]. Other researchers looked into wood surface modification [4,5], thermal stability [6] and fracture mechanics [7,8] Although having been investigated for quite some time now, there is still research interest, as new additives [9] and new material sources [10] are investigated for improved composite performance.…”

Polypropylene Modified with Ag-Based Semiconductors as a Potential Material against SARS-CoV-2 and Other Pathogens

“…One way to reduce the transmission of COVID-19 via surfaces is to design coatings based on functional nanoparticles that eliminate SARS-CoV-2 and apply them on common surfaces, such as door handles, bus supports, etc., continuously reducing the elimination period from weeks to minutes or hours . Polypropylene (PP) is currently one of the most consumed polymers for the manufacture of nonwoven surgical masks and aprons utilized in clinics and hospitals, besides being widely used in several other applications, such as packaging material and as a polymer matrix in a range of composite materials. − Additionally, the surface of this polymer has been modified by several treatment methods, which have the potential to confer antiviral properties. Such techniques include the addition of several metals, such as copper and silver, with intrinsically antiviral properties or biocidal doping agents to the matrix; incorporation of nanoparticles within the surface layer; and surface modification by a nanotexture process …”