PRODUCTION AND CHARACTERISATION OF BIODEGRADABLE MULTI-LAYER COMPOSITES MATERIALS FROM PELAGIC SARGASSUM SPP., LEAF SHEATHS AND POLYLACTIC ACID
Résumé
The massive invasion and proliferation of Sargassum algae on Caribbean beaches and coasts in recent years is threatening people's livelihoods, climate-sensitive areas and local ecosystems. The aim of this study was to assess the feasibility of manufacturing multi-layer composite particleboard using pelagic Sargassum as filler, coconut leaf sheaths as reinforcement and polylactic acid (PLA) as natural binder. The composites were subjected to three-point bending, density, porosity, morphology and biodegradability tests to assess the effect of number of layers, binder content and applied pressure during hot-pressing process on composite performance. The results show that weight loss after 15 days of biodegradation varies from 8.33 to 66.22%, with the greatest biodegradation observed on the composite consisting of a single layer of coconut leaf sheath. The stress-strain curve of the composite shows a ductile behavior of the materials, and only the composite composed of a 3-layers of coconut leaf sheaths and 10% by weight of PLA, pressed at 5 MPa, achieves the minimum flexural modulus of rupture of 18 MPa, as recommended by the Brazilian standard. Although
the multi-layer composite has acceptable mechanical performance, appropriate treatment should be applied to Sargassum seaweed to control its water resistance.
Domaines
ChimieOrigine | Fichiers produits par l'(les) auteur(s) |
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