rHDPE/Wood Fiber Composites: Effect of Maleic Anhydride on Tensile Properties and Morphology Analysis
Keywords:
recycled high density polyethylene, wood fiber, maleic anhydrideAbstract
The effect of maleic anhydride as a coupling agent on the tensile properties and morphology of recycled high density polyethylene/wood fiber (rHDPE/WF) composites was studied. rHDPE/WF composites with different wood fiber loading and the addition of maleic anhydride were prepared with Brabender Plasticorder at the temperature of 160°C and rotor speed of 50 rpm. The result indicated that rHDPE/WFM composites with maleic anhydride exhibited higher tensile strength and modulus of elasticity compared to rHDPE/WF composites. rHDPE/WFM with maleic anhydride composites gave a better interfacial adhesion between the matrix and the fiber than rHDPE/WF composites as evidenced using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM).