A study on the effect of different compatibilizers on mechanical properties of wheat straw-low density polyethylene (LDPE) biocomposites

In this study, a biodegradable composite for food packaging application was produced. Low density polyethylene as matrix, lingo-cellulosic powder of wheat straw as filler, and MAPE (Maleic Anhydride Polyethylene) and PEG (Polyethylene Glycol 400 and 600) as compatibilizers were used to preparation of these biocomposites. Mechanical characteristics (tensile, three points flexural and impact tests) of samples were performed to produce the best compound regarding the compatibilizers effect. Different weights of filler phase in levels: 70 to 30, 60 to 40, 50 to 50, and 40 to 60 % were used in the composite formulation. Compatibilizers were also applied in three levels of 0, 7, and 10 %. The results showed that the MAPE was the best compatibilizer as to improving the mechanical properties of the compounds. The type of compatibilizer is ineffective on the impact results. All composites were better than the control sample in the flexural tests.