Peanut shell from agricultural wastes as a sustainable filler for polyamide biocomposites fabrication

Abstract

Objective: Natural fibers reinforcements have gained increasing attention for the development of biocomposites thanks to their biodegradability and renewability. The search for natural-based reinforcements that improve the biodegradation of plastics while maintaining their physicochemical and mechanical properties is a never-ending task. Herein, we report the preparation of new biocomposites based on polyamide 6 (PA6) matrix and peanut shell powder (PSP) reinforcement. Methodology: The biobased composites were prepared by incorporating different amounts of PSP, from 5% to 20% by weight, and then characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction technique (XRD), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA), and scanning electron microscope (MEB). Results: Results showed that the addition of PSP did not affect the density of PA6. Its crystallinity was unaffected by the addition of 5%, 10%, and 15% of PSP, while it slightly decreases after the addition of 20% PSP. All analyses showed that the matrix kept its structure after adding a PSP concentration up to 15%, while a higher amount resulted in a new structure. Conclusion: Results of the present work might open a new way towards the development of efficient biocomposites through the valorization of natural fibers.