Composite materials derived from biodegradable starch polymer and Atriplex halimus fibers

Abstract

Biocomposites from starch and cellulose fibers have gained renewed interest as environmentally friendly materials and as biodegradable renewable resources for a sustainable development. In this study, natural fibers were extracted from a Mediterranean saltbush (Atriplex halimus) plant found abundantly in North Africa. The composites were prepared by a solution casting method from corn starch using 0-15 wt.% of micro-cellulose fibers as a filler. The structure of the composites was investigated by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The physical properties of the composites were determined by mechanical tensile tests, thermogravimetric analysis and water absorption. The results showed that higher fiber content raised the elastic modulus by 92% and the temperature of degradation by up to 355°C. Optical microscopy revealed a good adhesion between the matrix and the fibers owing to their chemical similarities. Water uptake measurements showed that the composites had a much better water resistance and a more hydrophobic character than pure thermoplastic starch films. Biodegradability tests confirmed that the prepared composites are an environmentally safe material suited for different applications.