Biocomposite of a multilayer film scrap and curauá fibers: Preparation and environmental degradation

An important material for making composites is the scrap of multilayer films. Using plant fibers in these composites can further contribute to reduce their environmental impact. We prepared, by extrusion and injection molding, composites of this scrap reinforced with 20 wt% of curaua fibers. These were characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM); optical microscopy; tensile, flexural, and notched impact strength tests; differential scanning calorimetry; carbonyl index (CI) by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy; reflectance ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy; and water absorption measurements. The fiber promoted an increase in the flexural and tensile moduli strengths. SEM showed good fiber/matrix adhesion, dispersion of the fibers in the matrix and their fibrillation. Weathering of the surface of the composite during environmental aging was evidenced by CI, degree of crystallinity, melting temperature, and the formation of cracks caused by chemi-crystallization. Despite the environmental degradation of the exposed composite surface, the mechanical properties and interfacial adhesion did not change significantly.