
Abstract High-density biopolyethylene (HDBPE) used as a matrix in composites reinforced by curaua fibers (5, 10, 15 and 20 wt%, 1 cm) was obtained on an industrial scale by polymerization of ethylene derived from sugarcane ethanol. Castor (CO) and canola (CA) oils were used in the preparation of composites (5, 10, 15, and 20 wt%) as a potential compatibilizer of the polar fibers and nonpolar matrix to facilitate the respective processing and to intensify polymer and reinforcement material interface interactions. The composites were characterized by SEM, DSC, TGA, DMA, and flexural and impact strength measurements. The results indicated that the incorporation of oils in various compositions, particularly CO, generally led to improved properties compared to the HDBPE/fiber composite material, indicating the potential of the oil as a compatibilizer at the fiber/matrix interface.
| selected citations These citations are derived from selected sources. This is an alternative to the "Influence" indicator, which also reflects the overall/total impact of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network (diachronically). | 25 | |
| popularity This indicator reflects the "current" impact/attention (the "hype") of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network. | Top 10% | |
| influence This indicator reflects the overall/total impact of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network (diachronically). | Top 10% | |
| impulse This indicator reflects the initial momentum of an article directly after its publication, based on the underlying citation network. | Top 10% |
