Parametric Responses of Non-chemical and Chemical Treatments of Bagasse Filler Reinforced Low Density Polyethylene Composites

Abstract

The responses of chemically treated and untreated Bagasse filler (Sugar cane fiber) reinforced low density polyethylene composites (LDPEC) to Scanning electrons microscope (SEM), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, and Dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) was investigated. The Bagasse fiber was properly dried, ground and sieved to 100 µm sizes using standard procedure and the low-density polyethylene matrix prepared as a composite material. The fillers were chemically treated using Alkali, Acetylation and Stearic acid. The samples were coded ATBF, ACTBF and SATBF respectively. Composite sheets/samples were prepared from both the Non-treated Bagasse fillers (NTBF) and the chemically treated Bagasse fillers. The fiber filler was given chemical treatment in the order of 10, 20, 30, 40 and 50% by weight fractions. These samples were then further subjected to SEM, FTIR, and DMA. The 40% weight fractions compositions were selected for the study since they had better mechanical properties. The results indicate that the chemically treated Bagasse filler composites exhibited better parametric responses, and so have better potentials for engineering applications.