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Díaz S, Romero F, Suárez L, Ríos R, Alemán M, Venuleo M, Ortega Z. Characterization of Microalgae Biomass-Based Composites Obtained through Rotational Molding. Polymers (Basel) 2024; 16:1807. [PMID: 39000662 PMCID: PMC11243890 DOI: 10.3390/polym16131807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2024] [Revised: 06/17/2024] [Accepted: 06/22/2024] [Indexed: 07/17/2024] Open
Abstract
The wide range of applications and the numerous advantages of plastics have led to their excessive use, with subsequent damage to ecosystems. As an environmentally friendly alternative, biocomposites have gained much attention, and microalgae have become a potential source for their production. In this study, the use of washed and unwashed Spirulina in polyethylene-based composites has been evaluated as a way to prevent the thermooxidation of polyethylene, while at the same time, reducing the amount of virgin plastic used. Biocomposites were produced by rotomolding, testing different biomass contents and determining their mechanical and thermal performances as well as their water uptake level. Composites with up to 15% of biomass (by weight), a particularly high ratio for rotomolding, were satisfactorily produced. Using 5% of both biomasses did not significantly modify the behavior when compared with the neat PE samples' properties. For higher loadings, the use of non-washed biomass allowed us to obtain better properties, with added benefits related to using an unwashed biomass (less water consumption, lower costs and fewer environmental impacts). On the other hand, this study showed a promising beneficial effect on the thermooxidative resistance of composites, as the oxidation induction times were notably increased with biomass addition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Díaz
- Departamento de Ingeniería de Procesos, Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Edificio de Fabricación Integrada, Parque Científico-Tecnológico de la ULPGC, Campus Universitario de Tafira Baja, 35017 Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Las Palmas, Spain
| | - Francisco Romero
- Departamento de Ingeniería de Procesos, Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Edificio de Fabricación Integrada, Parque Científico-Tecnológico de la ULPGC, Campus Universitario de Tafira Baja, 35017 Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Las Palmas, Spain
| | - Luis Suárez
- Departamento de Ingeniería de Procesos, Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Edificio de Fabricación Integrada, Parque Científico-Tecnológico de la ULPGC, Campus Universitario de Tafira Baja, 35017 Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Las Palmas, Spain
| | - Raúl Ríos
- Instituto Tecnológico de Canarias (ITC), Playa de Pozo Izquierdo, s/n, 35119 Santa Lucía, Las Palmas, Spain
| | - Monserrat Alemán
- Instituto Tecnológico de Canarias (ITC), Playa de Pozo Izquierdo, s/n, 35119 Santa Lucía, Las Palmas, Spain
| | - Marianna Venuleo
- Instituto Tecnológico de Canarias (ITC), Playa de Pozo Izquierdo, s/n, 35119 Santa Lucía, Las Palmas, Spain
| | - Zaida Ortega
- Departamento de Ingeniería de Procesos, Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Edificio de Fabricación Integrada, Parque Científico-Tecnológico de la ULPGC, Campus Universitario de Tafira Baja, 35017 Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Las Palmas, Spain
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2
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Dingcong R, Ahalajal MAN, Mendija LCC, Ruda-Bayor RJG, Maravillas FP, Cavero AI, Cea EJC, Pantaleon KJM, Tejas KJGD, Limbaga EA, Dumancas GG, Malaluan RM, Lubguban AA. Valorization of Agricultural Rice Straw as a Sustainable Feedstock for Rigid Polyurethane/Polyisocyanurate Foam Production. ACS OMEGA 2024; 9:13100-13111. [PMID: 38524426 PMCID: PMC10956088 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.3c09583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024]
Abstract
Agricultural rice straw (RS), often discarded as waste in farmlands, represents a vast and underutilized resource. This study explores the valorization of RS as a potential feedstock for rigid polyurethane/polyisocyanurate foam (RPUF) production. The process begins with the liquefaction of RS to create an RS-based polyol, which is then used in a modified foam formulation to prepare RPUFs. The resulting RPUF samples were comprehensively characterized according to their physical, mechanical, and thermal properties. The results demonstrated that up to 50% by weight of petroleum-based polyol can be substituted with RS-based polyol to produce a highly functional RPUF. The obtained foams exhibited a notably low apparent density of 18-24 kg/m3, exceptional thermal conductivity ranging from 0.031-0.041 W/m-K, and a high compressive strength exceeding 250 kPa. This study underlines the potential of the undervalued agricultural RS as a green alternative to petroleum-based feedstocks to produce a high-value RPUF. Additionally, the findings contribute to the sustainable utilization of abundant agricultural waste while offering an eco-friendly option for various applications, including construction materials and insulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roger
G. Dingcong
- Center
for Sustainable Polymers, Mindanao State
University − Iligan Institute of Technology, Iligan City 9200, Philippines
| | - Mary Ann N. Ahalajal
- Department
of Civil Engineering and Technology, Mindanao
State University − Iligan Institute of Technology, Iligan City 9200, Philippines
| | - Leanne Christie C. Mendija
- Department
of Materials Resources Engineering and Technology, Mindanao State University− Iligan Institute of Technology, Iligan City 9200, Philippines
| | - Rosal Jane G. Ruda-Bayor
- Department
of Materials Resources Engineering and Technology, Mindanao State University− Iligan Institute of Technology, Iligan City 9200, Philippines
| | - Felrose P. Maravillas
- Department
of Civil Engineering and Technology, Mindanao
State University − Iligan Institute of Technology, Iligan City 9200, Philippines
- College
of Engineering, Capitol University, Cagayan de Oro City 9000, Philippines
| | - Applegen I. Cavero
- Department
of Civil Engineering and Technology, Mindanao
State University − Iligan Institute of Technology, Iligan City 9200, Philippines
- AC
Joyo Design and Technical Services, Davao City 8000, Philippines
| | - Evalyn Joy C. Cea
- Department
of Civil Engineering and Technology, Mindanao
State University − Iligan Institute of Technology, Iligan City 9200, Philippines
| | - Kaye Junelle M. Pantaleon
- Department
of Materials Resources Engineering and Technology, Mindanao State University− Iligan Institute of Technology, Iligan City 9200, Philippines
| | - Kassandra Jayza Gift D. Tejas
- Center
for Sustainable Polymers, Mindanao State
University − Iligan Institute of Technology, Iligan City 9200, Philippines
| | - Edison A. Limbaga
- Department
of Materials Resources Engineering and Technology, Mindanao State University− Iligan Institute of Technology, Iligan City 9200, Philippines
| | - Gerard G. Dumancas
- Department
of Chemistry, The University of Scranton, Scranton, Pennsylvania 18510, United States
| | - Roberto M. Malaluan
- Center
for Sustainable Polymers, Mindanao State
University − Iligan Institute of Technology, Iligan City 9200, Philippines
- Department
of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Mindanao State University − Iligan Institute of Technology, Iligan City 9200, Philippines
| | - Arnold A. Lubguban
- Center
for Sustainable Polymers, Mindanao State
University − Iligan Institute of Technology, Iligan City 9200, Philippines
- Department
of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Mindanao State University − Iligan Institute of Technology, Iligan City 9200, Philippines
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3
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Kelly-Walley J, Ortega Z, McCourt M, Millar B, Suárez L, Martin P. Mechanical Performance of Rotationally Molded Multilayer mLDPE/Banana-Fiber Composites. MATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 16:6749. [PMID: 37895735 PMCID: PMC10608177 DOI: 10.3390/ma16206749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2023] [Revised: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023]
Abstract
The incorporation of materials different from the polymer within the rotational molding process usually results in lowered mechanical properties, where impact strength is of particular concern. In order to overcome this issue, multilayer structures of virgin polyethylene (PE) and banana fiber composites were prepared to determine the impact of the different layers on the performance of the final part. Cycle time has been studied to identify the influence of the addition of fibers in the process. The tensile, flexural and impact properties have been analyzed, finding improvements in Young's modulus of up to 13%, although at the expense of significant decreases in impact strength. A reduction in the fiber size due to the pulverization process was observed, which affected the rheological and mechanical behavior of the composite. The beneficial effects of working in multiple layers have been demonstrated in this work, where composites with up to 5% of banana fiber have been produced in two-layer structures. Finally, the need to add neat polyethylene in the external layer is also highlighted as a way to counteract the reductions in mechanical properties, particularly for flexural elastic modulus and tensile strength, and this also helps with the drop in impact behavior to a lower extent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jake Kelly-Walley
- Matrix Polymers, Unit 2, Compass Industrial Park, Spindus Road, Speke, Liverpool L24 1YA, UK
- Polymer Processing Research Centre, School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Queen’s University Belfast, Ashby Building, Stranmillis Road, Belfast BT9 5AH, Northern Ireland, UK; (M.M.); (B.M.); (P.M.)
| | - Zaida Ortega
- Departamento de Ingeniería de Procesos, Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Edificio de Ingenierías, Campus Universitario de Tafira Baja, 35017 Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Spain
| | - Mark McCourt
- Polymer Processing Research Centre, School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Queen’s University Belfast, Ashby Building, Stranmillis Road, Belfast BT9 5AH, Northern Ireland, UK; (M.M.); (B.M.); (P.M.)
| | - Bronagh Millar
- Polymer Processing Research Centre, School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Queen’s University Belfast, Ashby Building, Stranmillis Road, Belfast BT9 5AH, Northern Ireland, UK; (M.M.); (B.M.); (P.M.)
| | - Luis Suárez
- Departamento de Ingeniería Mecánica, Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Edificio de Ingenierías, Campus Universitario de Tafira Baja, 35017 Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Spain;
| | - Peter Martin
- Polymer Processing Research Centre, School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Queen’s University Belfast, Ashby Building, Stranmillis Road, Belfast BT9 5AH, Northern Ireland, UK; (M.M.); (B.M.); (P.M.)
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Tyukanko V, Demyanenko A, Semenyuk V, Dyuryagina A, Alyoshin D, Tarunin R, Voropaeva V. Development of an Ultrasonic Method for the Quality Control of Polyethylene Tanks Manufactured Using Rotational Molding Technology. Polymers (Basel) 2023; 15:polym15102368. [PMID: 37242943 DOI: 10.3390/polym15102368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2023] [Revised: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Tanks made of three different brands of rotational polyethylene (DOW, ELTEX, and M350) with three degrees of sintering (normal sintering (NS), incomplete sintering (ICS), and thermally degraded sintering (TDS)) and three thicknesses (7.5 mm, 8.5 mm, and 9.5 mm) were explored. It was found that the thickness of the walls of the tanks did not have a statistically significant effect on the parameters of the ultrasonic signal (USS). An increase in temperature caused a decrease in the USS parameters. According to the temperature coefficient of stability, the ELTEX brand of plastic can be distinguished (from DOW and M350). The ICS degree of the sintering of the tanks was revealed from a significantly lower amplitude of the bottom signal, compared with NS and TDS degree samples. By analyzing the amplitude of the third harmonic of the ultrasonic signal (β), three degrees of the sintering of containers NS, ICS, and TDS were revealed (with an accuracy of about 95%). Equations β = f(T, PIAT) were derived for each brand of rotational polyethylene (PE), and two-factor nomograms were constructed. Based on the results of this research, a method for the ultrasonic quality control of polyethylene tanks manufactured using rotational molding was developed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vitaliy Tyukanko
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Technology, Manash Kozybayev North Kazakhstan University, Petropavlovsk 150000, Kazakhstan
| | - Alexandr Demyanenko
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Technology, Manash Kozybayev North Kazakhstan University, Petropavlovsk 150000, Kazakhstan
| | - Vladislav Semenyuk
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Technology, Manash Kozybayev North Kazakhstan University, Petropavlovsk 150000, Kazakhstan
| | - Antonina Dyuryagina
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Technology, Manash Kozybayev North Kazakhstan University, Petropavlovsk 150000, Kazakhstan
| | - Dmitry Alyoshin
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Technology, Manash Kozybayev North Kazakhstan University, Petropavlovsk 150000, Kazakhstan
| | - Roman Tarunin
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Technology, Manash Kozybayev North Kazakhstan University, Petropavlovsk 150000, Kazakhstan
| | - Vera Voropaeva
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Technology, Manash Kozybayev North Kazakhstan University, Petropavlovsk 150000, Kazakhstan
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Aniśko J, Barczewski M. Uniaxial Rotational Molding of Bio-Based Low-Density Polyethylene Filled with Black Tea Waste. MATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 16:ma16103641. [PMID: 37241268 DOI: 10.3390/ma16103641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2023] [Revised: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/06/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
In this paper, the possibility of obtaining uniaxially rotomolded composite parts was discussed. The used matrix was bio-based low-density polyethylene (bioLDPE) filled with black tea waste (BTW) to prevent the thermooxidation of samples during processing. In rotational molding technology, the material is held at an elevated temperature in a molten state for a relatively long time, which can result in polymer oxidation. The Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) shows that adding 10 wt% of black tea waste has not led to the formation of carbonyl compounds in polyethylene, and adding 5 wt% and above prevents the appearance of the C-O stretching band connected with degradation of LDPE. The rheological analysis proved the stabilizing effect of black tea waste on the polyethylene matrix. The same temperature conditions of rotational molding did not change the chemical composition of black tea but slightly influenced the antioxidant activity of methanolic extracts; the detected changes suggest degradation is a color change, and the total color change parameter (ΔE) is 25. The oxidation level of unstabilized polyethylene measured using the carbonyl index exceeds 1.5 and gradually decreases with the addition of BTW. The BTW filler did not influence the melting properties of bioLDPE; the melting and crystallization temperature remained stable. The addition of BTW deteriorates the composite mechanical performance, including Young modulus and tensile strength, compared to the neat bioLDPE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Aniśko
- Institute of Materials Technology, Poznan University of Technology, Piotrowo 3, 61-138 Poznan, Poland
| | - Mateusz Barczewski
- Institute of Materials Technology, Poznan University of Technology, Piotrowo 3, 61-138 Poznan, Poland
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Strangis G, Rossi D, Cinelli P, Seggiani M. Seawater Biodegradable Poly(butylene succinate- co-adipate)-Wheat Bran Biocomposites. MATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 16:2593. [PMID: 37048886 PMCID: PMC10095215 DOI: 10.3390/ma16072593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2023] [Revised: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
The present work focused on the development and characterization of biocomposites based on a fully bio-based polyester, poly(butylene succinate-co-butylene adipate) (PBSA), and wheat bran derived by flour milling. PBSA-bran composites containing 5, 10, 15, and 20 wt.% of wheat bran were produced via melt extrusion and processed by injection molding. Their thermal, rheological, morphological, and tensile properties were investigated. In addition, a biodegradation test in a natural marine environment was conducted on composite dog-bones to assess the capacity of the used filler to increase the PBSA biodegradation rate. The composites maintained similar melt processability and mechanical properties to virgin PBSA with up to 15 wt.% bran content. This result was also supported by morphological investigation, which showed good filler dispersion within the polymer matrix at low-mid bran content, whereas poor polymer-filler dispersion occurred at higher concentrations. Furthermore, the biodegradation tests showed bran's capacity to improve the PBSA biodegradation rate, probably due to the hygroscopic bran swelling, which induced the fragmentation of the dog-bone with a consequent increase in the polymeric matrix-seawater interfacial area, accelerating the degradation mechanisms. These results encourage the use of wheat bran, an abundant and low-cost agri-food by-product, as a filler in PBSA-based composites to develop products with good processability, mechanical properties, and controlled biodegradability in marine environments.
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Kowalczyk Ł, Korol J, Chmielnicki B, Laska A, Chuchala D, Hejna A. One More Step towards a Circular Economy for Thermal Insulation Materials-Development of Composites Highly Filled with Waste Polyurethane (PU) Foam for Potential Use in the Building Industry. MATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 16:782. [PMID: 36676519 PMCID: PMC9864609 DOI: 10.3390/ma16020782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2022] [Revised: 01/04/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
The rapid development of the building sector has created increased demand for novel materials and technologies, while on the other hand resulting in the generation of a severe amount of waste materials. Among these are polyurethane (PU) foams, which are commonly applied as thermal insulation materials. Their management is a serious industrial problem, due to, for example, their complex chemical composition. Although some chemical and thermochemical methods of PU foam recycling are known, their broader use is limited due to requirements related to the complexity and safety of their installation, thus implicating high costs. Therefore, material recycling poses a promising alternative. The incorporation of waste PU foams as fillers for polymer composites could make it possible to take advantage of their structure and performance. Herein, polypropylene-based composites that were highly filled with waste PU foam and modified using foaming agents were prepared and analyzed. Depending on the foam loading and the foaming agent applied, the apparent density of material was reduced by as much as 68%. The efficient development of a porous structure, confirmed by scanning electron microscopy and high-resolution computed micro-tomography, enabled a 64% decrease in the thermal conductivity coefficient. The foaming of the structure affected the mechanical performance of composites, resulting in a deterioration of their tensile and compressive performance. Therefore, developing samples of the analyzed composites with the desired performance would require identifying the proper balance between mechanical strength and economic, as well as ecological (share of waste material in composite, apparent density of material), considerations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Łukasz Kowalczyk
- Central Mining Institute, Department of Material Engineering, Pl. Gwarkow 1, 40-166 Katowice, Poland
| | - Jerzy Korol
- Central Mining Institute, Department of Material Engineering, Pl. Gwarkow 1, 40-166 Katowice, Poland
| | - Błażej Chmielnicki
- Łukasiewicz Research Network–Institute of Engineering of Polymer Materials and Dyes, Center for Paints and Plastics, ul. Chorzowska 50A, 44-100 Gliwice, Poland
| | - Aleksandra Laska
- Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Ship Technology and EkoTech Center, Gdańsk University of Technology, 80-233 Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Daniel Chuchala
- Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Ship Technology and EkoTech Center, Gdańsk University of Technology, 80-233 Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Aleksander Hejna
- Institute of Materials Technology, Poznan University of Technology, Piotrowo 3, 60-965 Poznań, Poland
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Głogowska K, Pączkowski P, Gawdzik B. Assessment Study on the Solvent Resistance of Low-Density Polyethylene with Pumpkin Seed Hulls. MATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 16:138. [PMID: 36614478 PMCID: PMC9821635 DOI: 10.3390/ma16010138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Revised: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
When designing products that are made of composite materials and that contain natural fillers, it is particularly important to consider the long-term exposure of these materials to caustic liquids and substances (concentrated acids, bases), and to ensure that these products meet strict requirements for reliability and operational safety. This study investigated the effects of different solvents on the mass, mechanical, thermal, surface, and structural properties of polymer composites containing natural fillers in the form of pumpkin seed hulls. Experiments were conducted using four different filler contents (5, 10, 15, and 20 wt%) and grain sizes ranging from 0.2 to 0.4 mm and 0.6 to 0.8 mm. Hybrid injection-moulded pieces were immersed in distilled water (H2O), 1% NaOH solution, acetone (C3H6O), and toluene (C7H8) for 84 days. After that, their mechanical and thermal properties as well as their structure geometries were analysed statistically. Changes in the properties of the tested composite materials were assessed depending on the solvent type, and the statistical significance of these changes were determined. The results showed that the nature of degradation depended on the applied solvent type. It was observed that the polymer matrix of the toluene-immersed samples absorbed the liquid to a significant extent first and then underwent a gradual degradation with time. In contrast, the samples immersed in water showed a slight increase in their mass. It was found that all tested properties of the composite samples deteriorated irrespective of the solvent type.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karolina Głogowska
- Department of Technology and Polymer Processing, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Lublin University of Technology, Nadbystrzycka 36, 20-618 Lublin, Poland
| | - Przemysław Pączkowski
- Department of Polymer Chemistry, Institute of Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Chemistry, Maria Curie-Skłodowska University in Lublin, Gliniana 33, 20-614 Lublin, Poland
| | - Barbara Gawdzik
- Department of Polymer Chemistry, Institute of Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Chemistry, Maria Curie-Skłodowska University in Lublin, Gliniana 33, 20-614 Lublin, Poland
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Recent Developments in Inorganic Composites in Rotational Molding. Polymers (Basel) 2022; 14:polym14235260. [PMID: 36501654 PMCID: PMC9736900 DOI: 10.3390/polym14235260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2022] [Revised: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 12/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Rotational molding allows for obtaining hollow parts with good aesthetics and properties, having as main drawbacks the lack of pressure and the long cycle times, which limit the range of materials. Different fillers have been introduced in rotomolding to obtain composite materials assessed. This review has shown that glass fibers or particles are the most common material among them, although carbon fibers or clays have also been studied. In general terms, 10% loadings provide an increase in mechanical properties; higher loadings usually lead to a decrease in processability or final properties. When the filler consists of a micro- or nano-material, such as clay or graphene, lower loadings are proposed, generally not exceeding 3%. The use of fillers of an inorganic nature to obtain composites has not been as explored as the incorporation of lignocellulosic materials and even less if referring to waste materials or side streams from industrial processes. So, there is a broad field for assessing the processing and properties of rotomolded composites containing inorganic waste materials, including the study of the relationship between the ratio of filler/reinforcement and the final properties and also their preprocessing (dry blending vs. melting compounding).
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Use of Ricinus communis shredded material as filler in rotational molded parts to improve the bio-disintegration behavior. Polym Bull (Berl) 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s00289-022-04593-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
AbstractThis paper focuses on the use of castor oil plant (Ricinus communis) as filler in rotomolded parts using polyethylene (PE) and polylactic acid (PLA) as polymer matrixes. The vegetable shredded material was used in 5 and 10% weight following a dry blending procedure and then rotomolded to obtain cube test parts. This material was characterized to determine its chemical composition, thermal stability, and structure. The NaOH-treated material shows reduced hemicellulose content and higher thermal stability. Obtained composite materials were characterized in terms of mechanical (tensile, flexural, and impact) and thermal properties, morphology, and bio-disintegration behavior. The use of Ricinus as filler in rotomolded PE composite decreases, in general terms, mechanical properties of neat PE, while no significant changes in thermal or bio-disintegration properties are found. On the contrary, PLA composites show higher tensile strength and similar Young's modulus than the matrix, although with reduced flexural and impact properties. Alkali-treated Ricinus material produces parts with higher porosity and thus, lower mechanical properties than composites with untreated material. Finally, the incorporation of this vegetal material modifies to a great extent the thermal properties of the PLA matrix. The bio-disintegration rate increases due to the use of fibers, probably because of the higher moisture absorption of composites.
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Crystallization Behavior of Poly(ε-Caprolactone)-Hollow Glass Microspheres Composites for Rotational Molding Technology. Polymers (Basel) 2022; 14:polym14204326. [PMID: 36297902 PMCID: PMC9609941 DOI: 10.3390/polym14204326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Revised: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Composites suitable for rotational molding technology based on poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL) and filled with hollow glass microspheres (HGM) or functionalized hollow glass microspheres (HGMf) were prepared via melt-compounding. The functionalization of glass microspheres was carried out by a silanization treatment in order to improve the compatibility between the inorganic particles and the polymer matrix and achieve a good dispersion of glass microspheres in the matrix and an enhanced filler-polymer adhesion. The crystallization behavior of materials was studied by DSC under isothermal and non-isothermal conditions and the nucleating effect of the glass microspheres was proven. In particular, the presence of silanized glass microspheres promoted faster crystallization rates and higher nucleation activity, which are enhanced by 75% and 50%, respectively, comparing neat PCL and the composite filled with 20 wt% HGMf. The crystalline and supermolecular structure of PCL and composites crystallized from the melt was evaluated by WAXD and SAXS, highlighting differences in terms of crystallinity index and structural parameters as a function of the adopted crystallization conditions.
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12
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Aniśko J, Barczewski M, Piasecki A, Skórczewska K, Szulc J, Szostak M. The Relationship between a Rotational Molding Processing Procedure and the Structure and Properties of Biobased Polyethylene Composites Filled with Expanded Vermiculite. MATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 15:ma15175903. [PMID: 36079285 PMCID: PMC9457396 DOI: 10.3390/ma15175903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2022] [Revised: 08/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/24/2022] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Rotational molding is a technology in which polymeric thin-walled products can be made. The newest descriptions of this technology concern the possibility of obtaining polymer composite materials. There are two main methods of incorporating fillers into a polymer matrix. Dry blending is based on mixing fillers with polymer powders before rotational molding by hand or using automatic mixers. In the melt compounding method, fillers are mixed with the polymer in the preliminary step by melt processing and then grinding or pulverization to obtain polymer powders for rotational molding. This work aimed to investigate the impact of the processing procedure on the structure and properties of biobased composites with expanded vermiculite. Produced rotomolded parts were examined using mechanical tests to assess changes in tensile, flexural, and impact properties. The most significant difference in mechanical properties was noted for samples with 10 wt% expanded vermiculite (EV). The elasticity modulus increases by almost 2 fold when the sample is prepared in a two-step process, the tensile strength is 4-fold higher, the flexural modulus is 3-fold higher, and the flexural strength is 5-fold higher. We also investigated thermomechanical properties in DMA measurement. The void volume content was also measured to control the quality of obtained parts. The porosity of dry blended samples containing more than 2 wt% EV is almost 2-fold higher. Other methods to control quality and structure were optical and scanning electron microscopy used for rotomolded parts and polymer powders. The investigations of rotomolded parts were supplemented with a complete description of used materials, including the particle size distributions of polymer powders and filler. Analysis of the thermal properties and chemical structure was also performed despite all the mechanical tests. The emerging conclusions from the research clearly show that the two-step process allows for achieving a more beneficial mechanical performance of the composites made of the biobased polymer in rotational molding technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Aniśko
- Institute of Materials Technology, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Poznan University of Technology, Piotrowo 3, 61-139 Poznan, Poland
| | - Mateusz Barczewski
- Institute of Materials Technology, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Poznan University of Technology, Piotrowo 3, 61-139 Poznan, Poland
| | - Adam Piasecki
- Institute of Materials Engineering, Faculty of Materials Engineering and Technical Physics, Poznan University of Technology, Piotrowo 3, 61-138 Poznan, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Skórczewska
- Faculty of Chemical Technology and Engineering, Bydgoszcz University of Technology, Seminaryjna 3, 85-326 Bydgoszcz, Poland
| | - Joanna Szulc
- Faculty of Chemical Technology and Engineering, Bydgoszcz University of Technology, Seminaryjna 3, 85-326 Bydgoszcz, Poland
| | - Marek Szostak
- Institute of Materials Technology, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Poznan University of Technology, Piotrowo 3, 61-139 Poznan, Poland
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Ahmad H, Rodrigue D. Crosslinked polyethylene: A review on the crosslinking techniques, manufacturing methods, applications, and recycling. POLYM ENG SCI 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/pen.26049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Hibal Ahmad
- Department of Chemical Engineering Université Laval Quebec City Quebec Canada
| | - Denis Rodrigue
- Department of Chemical Engineering Université Laval Quebec City Quebec Canada
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14
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Manufacture and Characterization of Polypropylene (PP) and High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) Blocks for Potential Use as Masonry Component in Civil Construction. Polymers (Basel) 2022; 14:polym14122463. [PMID: 35746039 PMCID: PMC9227878 DOI: 10.3390/polym14122463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2022] [Revised: 06/01/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The lack of suitable destinations for plastics materials can be a global environmental problem. The alternative use of materials for sustainable construction encourages the standardization of waste and promotes effective social, environmental and economic gains at the local level and ensures savings and income for communities. The aim of this paper is the development, manufacture, and characterization of PP and HDPE recycled polyolefin blocks as masonry components in civil construction. These blocks were manufactured by the rotational molding process. Besides this, the mechanical, physical, impact and flammability properties of the blocks were studied. In conclusion, HDPE showed better behavior than PP in tests realized.
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15
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Shahavi MH, Selakjani PP, Abatari MN, Antov P, Savov V. Novel Biodegradable Poly (Lactic Acid)/Wood Leachate Composites: Investigation of Antibacterial, Mechanical, Morphological, and Thermal Properties. Polymers (Basel) 2022; 14:polym14061227. [PMID: 35335557 PMCID: PMC8950512 DOI: 10.3390/polym14061227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2022] [Revised: 03/10/2022] [Accepted: 03/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
This research aimed to investigate the effects of using wood leachate (WL) powder as a cost-effective filler added to novel poly (lactic acid) biocomposites and evaluate their mechanical, thermal, morphological, and antibacterial properties. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), tensile test, Charpy impact test, Shore hardness, scanning electron microscope (SEM), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), contact angle, and bacterial growth inhibition tests were employed to characterize the developed biocomposites. The SEM results indicated a proper filler dispersion in the polymer matrix. WL powder improved the hydrophobic nature in the adjusted sample’s contact angle experiment. Markedly, the results showed that the addition of WL filler improved the mechanical properties of the fabricated biocomposites. The thermal analysis determined the development in crystallization behavior and a decline in glass transition temperature (Tg) from 60.1 to 49.3 °C in 7% PLA-WL biocomposites. The PLA-WL biocomposites exhibited an antibacterial activity according to the inhibition zone for Escherichia coli bacteria. The developed novel PLA-WL composites can be effectively utilized in various value-added industrial applications as a sustainable and functional biopolymer material.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Hassan Shahavi
- Faculty of Engineering Modern Technologies, Amol University of Special Modern Technologies (AUSMT), Amol 4615664616, Iran
| | - Peyman Pouresmaeel Selakjani
- Faculty of Engineering Modern Technologies, Amol University of Special Modern Technologies (AUSMT), Amol 4615664616, Iran
| | - Mohadese Niksefat Abatari
- Faculty of Engineering Modern Technologies, Amol University of Special Modern Technologies (AUSMT), Amol 4615664616, Iran
| | - Petar Antov
- Faculty of Forest Industry, University of Forestry, 1797 Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Viktor Savov
- Faculty of Forest Industry, University of Forestry, 1797 Sofia, Bulgaria
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16
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Study on the Properties and Structure of Rotationally Moulded Linear Low-Density Polyethylene Filled with Quartz Flour. MATERIALS 2022; 15:ma15062154. [PMID: 35329606 PMCID: PMC8951892 DOI: 10.3390/ma15062154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2022] [Revised: 03/11/2022] [Accepted: 03/13/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
The objective of this study is to determine selected properties of thin-walled rotationally moulded composite parts. Linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) filled with quartz flour (QF, 5–35 wt.%) was tested. High-density polyethylene functionalized with maleic anhydride (HDPE-g-MA) was used as a compatibility agent. Polymer samples were prepared with and without the compatibility agent (2 wt.% in relation to the QF content). The study investigated the effect of QF content and HDPE-g-MA on the properties of rotationally moulded parts, including their melt flow rate (MFR), thermal properties (DSC and TGA), thermomechanical properties (VST), mechanical and physical properties, microstructure, and geometry. Results showed that the properties of LLDPE/QF with HDPE-g-MA were significantly higher than those of LLDPE/QF without HDPE-g-MA. It was also found that the compatibility agent improved the composite material’s thermal stability. This improvement was attributed to interactions occurring between the composite material components due to the use of the compatibility agent. In addition to that, microscopic examination demonstrated that the use of HDPE-g-MA improved miscibility of the composite material components. The composite samples containing HDPE-g-MA had better surface geometry.
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Sakahara RM, da Silva DJ, Wang SH. Composites of
ABS
with
SEBS
‐g‐
MA
and copper microparticles modified by mussel‐bioinspired polydopamine: A comparative rheological study. J Appl Polym Sci 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/app.51768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Rogério Massanori Sakahara
- Department of Metallurgical and Materials Engineering Polytechnic School, University of São Paulo São Paulo Brazil
| | - Daniel José da Silva
- Department of Metallurgical and Materials Engineering Polytechnic School, University of São Paulo São Paulo Brazil
- Engineering, Modeling and Applied Social Sciences Center (CECS) Federal University of ABC (UFABC) Santo André Brazil
| | - Shu Hui Wang
- Department of Metallurgical and Materials Engineering Polytechnic School, University of São Paulo São Paulo Brazil
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18
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Research on the End-Face Distribution of Rotational Molding Heating Gun Based on Numerical Simulation Method. Processes (Basel) 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/pr10010097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The distribution of heating gun ends plays a decisive role in the sidewall properties of finished rotomolded products. To obtain the optimal distribution of the end face of a rotational molding heating gun, the temperature response of the end-face mold under heating gun heating was investigated, and an analysis method based on numerical simulation is proposed. The FDS (fire dynamics simulator) was used to construct a heating model of the heating gun, simulate and obtain a heatmap of the temperature field distribution of a heating gun of Φ30–70 mm, and determine the optimal diameter and heating distance of the heating gun. ANSYS was used to establish the thermal response model of the heat-affected mold, which was combined with the mold structure and thermophysical properties of steel. A temperature field distribution on the inner wall surface of Φ30, Φ50, and Φ70 mm heating guns when heating at each diameter of the end face was obtained and the distribution position of the end face of each diameter heating gun was determined. ANSYS was used to establish the thermal response model of the end-face mold and obtain the temperature field distribution of the inner wall surface of the end-face mold. The size of the heat-affected area of each diameter heating gun was combined, the end-face heating gun distribution was optimized, and the optimal heating gun end-face distribution was obtained. An experimental platform was built, and a validation experiment was set up. Through the analysis and processing of the data of three experiments, the temperature variation curve of each diameter on the inner surface of the end-face mold was obtained. We compare and analyze the simulation and experimental results to determine the feasibility of the FDS + ANSYS method and the correctness and accuracy of the simulation model and the results.
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19
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Valorization of Invasive Plants from Macaronesia as Filler Materials in the Production of Natural Fiber Composites by Rotational Molding. Polymers (Basel) 2021; 13:polym13132220. [PMID: 34279362 PMCID: PMC8272087 DOI: 10.3390/polym13132220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2021] [Revised: 06/29/2021] [Accepted: 07/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
This paper compares the mechanical properties of different natural fiber composites produced by rotational molding as a way of waste valorization from campaigns to control invasive plant species in Macaronesia. Rotomolded parts produced with polymeric matrices (polyethylene) and filled with up to 20% by weight of cellulosic fibers obtained from Arundo donax L., Pennisetum setaceum, and Ricinus communis plants were characterized in terms of tensile, flexural, and impact strength. It was found that the sieving of natural fibers allowed for their introduction in higher loadings, from 10 (for un-sieved material) to 20%; fiber size greatly affected the mechanical properties of the final parts, although some combinations were proven not to reduce the mechanical properties of the neat resin. This study is a first approach to the valorization of residues obtained from periodic campaigns of the control of invasive species performed by public authorities, usually at the local level. It is important to highlight that the main objective of this research did not focus on economically profitable activity; instead, it was focused on the reduction of wastes to be disposed from ecosystem maintenance actions and the investment of potential income into preservation policies.
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20
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Dou Y, Rodrigue D. Morphological, thermal and mechanical properties of polypropylene foams via rotational molding. CELLULAR POLYMERS 2021. [DOI: 10.1177/02624893211018825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
In this work, polypropylene (PP) was foamed via rotational molding using a chemical blowing agent (CBA) based on azodicarbonamide over a range of concentration (0 to 0.5% wt.). The samples were then analyzed in terms of morphological, thermal and mechanical properties. The morphological analysis showed a continuous increase in the average cell size and cell density with increasing CBA content. Increasing the CBA content also led to lower foam density and thermal conductivity. Similarly, all the mechanical properties (tension, flexion and impact) were found to decrease with increasing CBA content. Finally, the efficiency of the rotomolding process was assessed by producing neat PP samples via compression molding. The results showed negligible differences between the rotomolded and compression molded properties at low deformation and rate of deformation indicating that optimal rotomolding conditions were selected.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yao Dou
- Department of Chemical Engineering and CERMA, Université Laval, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
| | - Denis Rodrigue
- Department of Chemical Engineering and CERMA, Université Laval, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
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21
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Dou Y, Rodrigue D. Morphological, thermal and mechanical properties of recycled HDPE foams via rotational molding. J CELL PLAST 2021; 58:305-323. [PMID: 35535315 PMCID: PMC9075883 DOI: 10.1177/0021955x211013793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
In this study, foamed recycled high density polyethylene (rHDPE) parts were
produced by rotational molding using different concentration (0 to 1% wt.) of a
chemical blowing agent (CBA) based on azodicarbonamide. From the samples
produced, a complete morphological, thermal and mechanical characterization was
performed. The morphological analysis showed a gradual increase in the average
cell size, while the cell density firstly increased and then decreased with
increasing CBA content. As expected, increasing the CBA content decreased the
foam density as well as the thermal conductivity. Although increasing the CBA
content decreased both tensile and flexural properties, the impact strength
showed a similar trend as the cell density with an optimum CBA content around
0.1% wt. Finally, neat rHDPE samples were also produced by compression molding.
The results showed negligible differences between the rotomolded and compression
molded properties indicating that optimal rotomolding conditions were selected.
These results confirm the possibility of using 100% recycled polymers to produce
rotomolded foam parts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yao Dou
- Department of Chemical Engineering and CERMA, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Denis Rodrigue
- Department of Chemical Engineering and CERMA, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada
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22
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Amine Functionalized Wheat Bran Husk as Bio-Based Organic Adsorbent for Low-Density Polyethylene Composite of Carbon Dioxide Capture. Macromol Res 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s13233-020-8172-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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23
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Performance of Nano- and Microcalcium Carbonate in Uncrosslinked Natural Rubber Composites: New Results of Structure-Properties Relationship. Polymers (Basel) 2020; 12:polym12092002. [PMID: 32899121 PMCID: PMC7564203 DOI: 10.3390/polym12092002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2020] [Revised: 08/29/2020] [Accepted: 09/01/2020] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Calcium carbonate (CaCO3) is one of the most important inorganic powders and is widely used as filler in order to reduce costs in the rubber industry. Nanocalcium carbonate reduces costs and acts as a semireinforcing filler that improves the mechanical properties of rubber composites. The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of nano-CaCO3 (NCC) and micro-CaCO3 (MCC) on the properties of natural rubber composites, in particular, new results of structure-properties relationship. The effects of NCC/MCC on the properties of rubber composites, such as Mooney viscosity, bound rubber, Mullins effect, and Payne effect, were investigated. The result of the Mullins effect of rubber composites filled with NCC was in good agreement with the results of Mooney viscosity and bound rubber, with higher Mooney viscosity and bound rubber leading to higher stress to pull the rubber composites. The Payne effect showed that the value of different storage moduli (ΔG') of rubber composites filled with 25 parts per hundred rubber (phr) NCC was the lowest due to weaker filler network, while the rubber supplemented with 100 phr NCC had more significant ΔG' values with increase in strain. The results of rubber composites filled with MCC showed the same tendency as those of rubber composites filled with NCC. However, the effect of specific surface area of NCC on the properties of rubber composites was more pronounced than those of rubber composites filled with MCC. Finite element analysis of the mechanical property of rubber composites was in good agreement with the result from the experiment. The master curves of time-temperature superposition presented lower free volume in the composites for higher loading of filler, which would require more relaxation time of rubber molecules. This type of nanocalcium carbonate material can be applied to tailor the properties and processability of rubber products.
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Członka S, Strąkowska A, Kairytė A. Application of Walnut Shells-Derived Biopolyol in the Synthesis of Rigid Polyurethane Foams. MATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2020; 13:E2687. [PMID: 32545580 PMCID: PMC7345166 DOI: 10.3390/ma13122687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2020] [Revised: 06/07/2020] [Accepted: 06/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to examine rigid polyurethane (PUR) foam properties that were synthesized from walnut shells (WS)-based polyol. The Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) results revealed that the liquefaction of walnut shells was successfully performed. The three types of polyurethane (PUR) foams were synthesized by replacement of 10, 20, and 30 wt% of a petrochemical polyol with WS-based polyol. The impact of WS-based polyol on the cellular morphology, mechanical, thermal, and insulating characteristics of PUR foams was examined. The produced PUR foams had apparent densities from 37 to 39 kg m-3, depending on the weight ratio of WS-based polyol. PUR foams that were obtained from WS-based polyol exhibited improved mechanical characteristics when compared with PUR foams that were derived from the petrochemical polyol. PUR foams produced from WS-based polyol showed compressive strength from 255 to 310 kPa, flexural strength from 420 to 458 kPa, and impact strength from 340 to 368 kPa. The foams that were produced from WS-based polyol exhibited less uniform cell structure than foams derived from the petrochemical polyol. The thermal conductivity of the PUR foams ranged between 0.026 and 0.032 W m-1K-1, depending on the concentration of WS-based polyol. The addition of WS-based polyol had no significant influence on the thermal degradation characteristics of PUR foams. The maximum temperature of thermal decomposition was observed for PUR foams with the highest loading of WS-based polyol.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylwia Członka
- Institute of Polymer and Dye Technology, Faculty of Chemistry, Lodz University of Technology, Stefanowskiego 12/16, 90-924 Lodz, Poland;
| | - Anna Strąkowska
- Institute of Polymer and Dye Technology, Faculty of Chemistry, Lodz University of Technology, Stefanowskiego 12/16, 90-924 Lodz, Poland;
| | - Agnė Kairytė
- Faculty of Civil Engineering, Institute of Building Materials, Laboratory of Thermal Insulating Materials and Acoustics, Vilnius Gediminas Technical University, Linkmenu st. 28, LT-08217 Vilnius, Lithuania;
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