Interfacial behavior of composites of recycled poly(ethyelene terephthalate) and sugarcane bagasse fiber

This paper reports on a study of composites of recycled poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PETr) and sugarcane bagasse fiber with and without compatibilizing agents. The interfacial behavior of these composites was investigated by torque rheometry, tensile tests, dynamic mechanical thermal analysis (DMTA) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). A comparison of the torque values resulting from the use of ethylene/n-butyl acrylate/glycidyl methacrylate (EBGMA) and ethylene-methyl acrylate (EMA) copolymer compatibilizing agents indicated that EBGMA increased the interaction between the constituents more effectively than EMA. The addition of bagasse sugarcane fiber did not affect the tensile modulus and reduced the tensile strength and elongation of PETr, as is normally observed in these types of composites. Consistent with the results of torque rheometry and DMA, the SEM analyses indicated that EBGMA improved adhesion between the constituents. All the composites showed promise as good alternatives for the production of environmentally friendly products. (C) 2008 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.