Effect of nanoclay on properties of medium density polyethylene (MDPE)/rice husk flour (RHF) composites

Abstract

This research aimed to study the effect of nanoclay filled in medium density polyethylene (MDPE)/ rice husk flour (RHF) composite on structure, mechanical properties, thermal properties, and water absorption. The composites were prepared using compression molding machine. Rice husk flour content was 30 wt%. The treatment of rice husks was carried out by using NaOH. The commercial nanoclay added into MDPE/ RHF composites at 2, 4, and 6 wt%. In addition, 3 and 5 wt% maleic anhydride grafted polyethylene was used to enhance the interfacial adhesion between MDPE and RHF and also to improve the dispersion of nanoclay in MDPE matrix. It was found that the addition of the MDPE increased tensile strength and moisture absorption but decreased elongation at break and flexural strength. In addition, as the content of the nanoclay increased, tensile strength and flexural strength increased while moisture absorption and the elongation at break decreased. Melt temperature was found not changed in all composites.