The Study Of Polylactic Acid And Nanoclay On The Degradation Properties Of Low-Density Polyethylene Composites.

Abstract

A study was carried out to check the effect of using polylactic acid, Nano clay and glycerine as compatibilizer on the degradation property of virgin and waste low density Polyethylene which is the major component used in producing polyethylene bag. Virgin and waste samples of polyethylene, polylactic acid and Nano clay were obtained locally and compounded using the two-roll mix and the compression moulding machine to produce the composites. Moulded samples produced were cut accordingly using ASTM specification for the tests. Tests carried out included tensile, flexural, hardness, impact, water absorption, soil burial test. Results showed improved tensile, flexural, hardness strength as compared to the control sample (100% Virgin Polyethylene). The addition of polylactic acid, Nano clay and glycerine showed good interfacial bonding between the matrix and the fillers which improved the mechanical properties, water absorption and aided degradation during soil burial test. As the amount of filler content increased it affected the impact test due to the brittle nature of both Nano clay and polylactic acid.