Mechanical Properties and Morphological Analysis of High-Density Polyethylene/Poly(Ethylene Glycol) Methacrylate/Rice Husk Composite

Abstract

Polymers that are low-cost, lightweight, durable, and eco-friendly can be considered as one of the aims of recent research studies to solve environmental problems, especially those caused by the abundance of plastic wastes. The notable mechanical properties of such polymers could be achieved with reinforcements such as using natural fibers like hemp, sisal, wood-fiber, jute, and the focus of the study, rice husk. Using high-density polyethylene (HDPE) as the matrix, the addition of rice husk fillers was able to improve the mechanical properties of the polymer composites. However, the microstructure of the composite seems to be uneven, and voids could be observed. This must be due to disturbances or inhomogeneity in the interfacial dispersion of the filler (rice husk) and the matrix (polyethylene). This paper aims to introduce a poly (ethylene glycol) methacrylate (PEGMA) compatibilizer that can help provide stronger interfacial dispersion between the filler and matrix to improve the mechanical properties and morphology of the composite. It also offers a broader perspective regarding the possible component combinations and ratios in fabricating polyethylene which may, later on, lead to the manufacture of more efficient polyethylene-based products.