Biocomposites Based on Poly(Lactic Acid) Matrix and Reinforced with Lignocellulosic Fibers: The Effect of Fiber Type and Matrix Modification

In composite materials, two or more different components are combined to produce a new material with different characteristics from the individual components. In recent years, due to environmental concerns, the development of biocomposites based on natural fibers has attracted great interest of researchers. The mechanical properties of biocomposites are dependent, among other parameters, on matrix properties, fiber properties as well as fiber/matrix adhesion. There are different approaches to improve fiber/matrix adhesion, such as, the use of fiber surface treatments and the use of matrix modifiers, i.e.,: coupling agents. In this work, poly(lactic acid) matrix composites reinforced with two different lignocellulosic fibers (sisal and flax) were prepared and the mechanical properties of both types of composites were compared. On the other hand, poly(lactic acid) polymer was modified with maleic anhydride in the presence of dicumyl peroxide. The mechanical properties of PLA/lignocellulosic fiber composites modified with maleic anhydride-modified poly(lactic acid) were also studied.