Effect of Benzoyl Chloride and Fiber Loading on Mechanical Properties and Biodegradation of Poly Lactic Acid/Sugarcane Bagasse Fibre Composites

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the properties of benzoyl chloride modified and unmodified poly lactic acid and sugarcane bagasse fibre composites (PLA/SCBF), as well as the impact of chemical treatment on the mechanical and biodegradation properties of these composites. In this study, Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) Spectroscopy was employed to examine the benzoyl chloride modified and unmodified fibre samples. Additionally, Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) and Thermal Gravimetric Analysis (TGA) techniques were utilised to investigate the morphology and thermal behaviour of the Poly lactic/SCBF composites. The results indicate that the use of benzoyl chloride treatment resulted in an increase in the tensile, flexural characteristics, impact strength, and hardness strength. The treatment with benzoyl chloride resulted in a reduction in both water absorption and biodegradability. The research also elucidated the impact of increasing the quantity of sugar cane bagasse on the aforementioned qualities. The addition of SCBF at higher loading resulted in a decrease in the tensile strength, biodegradability, flexural strength, and impact strength. The water absorption and hardness exhibited a positive correlation with the increase in fibre loading. The observed improvement in mechanical characteristics indicates that the treatment effectively enhanced the interfacial adhesion between SCBF and the PLA matrix. The enhancement of the interfacial adhesive forces was observed by the examination of scanning electron microscopy (SEM) micrographs. The Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectrum of the treated solvent-cast bamboo fibre (SCBF) exhibited the presence of a benzoyl group attached to the fibre, indicating successful benzoyl chloride treatment. Additionally, a modest reduction in hemicellulose content was seen following the treatment. The thermal characteristics of the modified PLA/SCBF composites were found to be enhanced based on the results obtained from the TGA-DTA analysis.