Development of polyhydroxyalkanoates/poly(lactic acid) composites reinforced with cellulosic fibers

Abstract In this work, the mechanical behavior of [30:70] (wf) PHA/PLA blend matrix reinforced with cellulosic fibers is investigated in the range of fiber incorporation of 10%, 20% and 30% wf. The mechanical properties of the composites can be optimized through the variation of the fiber content on the composite. It is possible to predict the tensile properties recurring to modified Halpin–Tsai equation, Ishai and Cohen Model and Rule-of-Mixtures Models. Analyzing the data from the dart impact test, the irregular fiber distribution for fiber ratio over than 20% is confirmed. The highest synergetic effect is found for fiber ratio of 20%. The incorporation of fiber improves the Heat Deflection Temperature (HDT) of the matrix when the fiber presents a homogeneous distribution through the matrix. The microscopic analysis allows identifying the good dispersion of the fiber through the matrix and a lower interfacial adhesion. The incorporation of 20% wf of fibers drives to an increasing of the tensile, flexural and impact behavior and also to a superior HDT.