Characterization of Tapioca Starch Biopolymer Composites Reinforced with Micro Scale Water Hyacinth Fibers. (10th April 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Abral, Hairul; Dalimunthe, Maro Hagabean; Hartono, Joko; Efendi, Rice Putra; Asrofi, Mochamad; Sugiarti, Eni; Sapuan, S. M.; Park, Ji‐Won; Kim, Hyun‐Joong
• Other Names: Al‐Harthi Mamdouh guestEditor.
• Is Part Of: Stärke. Volume 70:Number 7/8(2018)
• Page Start: n/a
• Page End: n/a
• Publication Date: 2018-04-10
• Subjects: biocomposites -- mechanical properties -- tapioca starch biopolymers -- thermal and moisture resistance -- water hyacinth fiber pulp; Starch -- Periodicals; 572.566
• DOI: 10.1002/star.201700287
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0038-9056

Abstract

Abstract : This paper reports on the properties of microscale water hyacinth fiber pulp (WHF) filled tapioca starch biopolymer (TSB) composites. The volume fraction of WHF in the TSB matrix is varied, that is, 1%, 3%, 5%, and 10%. A casting method is used for making sample films of the biocomposites. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) of the fracture surface of the biocomposite for the tensile samples displays good fiber distribution in the matrix, and interface bonding between WHF and TSB. The 10% fiber biocomposite deliveres the highest value of tensile strength (TS) of 6.68 MPa, and tensile modulus (TM) of 210.95 MPa; however, this combination also has the lowest fracture strain of 7.30%. In this case, there was 549% improvement of TS and 973% of TM in comparison to TSB. The biocomposite with 10% WHF content also showes the highest thermal resistance and the lowest moisture absorption. It shows potential for future commercial applications. Abstract : Modifying the loading of hyacinth fiber in tapioca starch composites results in significantly different moisture absorption, thermal, and mechanical properties. The addition of microscale pulp fibers increases the performance of biocomposites. This biocomposite shows potential for commercial applications due to its superior properties.