Crystallization kinetics of poly (butylene adipate terephthalate) in biocomposite with coconut fiber

The melt crystallization characteristics of a compound of coconut lignocellulosic fibers dispersed in poly(butylene adipate terephthalate) (PBAT), a fully biodegradable copolyester matrix, was studied by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). PBAT/coconut fiber compounds with 10% and 20% filler content were prepared in a laboratory internal mixer; torque rheometry showed negligible degradation during processing. Nonisothermal melt crystallization of the matrix was thoroughly studied by DSC in 10% compounds at cooling rates between 2 and 32 degrees C/min, and quantitative information was provided on crystallization temperatures and rates, as well as the crystallinity developed, which turned out to be higher than expected at the high cooling rates. Crystallization kinetic results were correlated using classical macrokinetic Pseudo-Avrami, Ozawa, and Mo models, in order to obtain quantitative analytical expressions appropriate for processing applications. Pseudo-Avrami and Mo models were found to represent well the experimental data. A detailed analysis of the model fitting is presented, in order to assess the expected uncertainties. Despite its failings at the onset and end of the crystallization process, Mo model is recommended as best overall empirical correlation of the experimental data for the intended purpose.