Enhanced Physico-Mechanical Properties of LDPE Reinforced Using Agro-Wastes as Hybrid Fillers

The environmental persistence of petroleum-based plastics such as low-density polyethylene (LDPE) has necessitated research into eco-friendly alternatives. This study investigates the incorporation of mixed agro-waste fillers; coconut husk, breadfruit hull, and periwinkle shell into LDPE matrices to assess their mechanical, thermal, morphological, solvent imbibitions, and biodegradation properties. The composites were fabricated using injection moulding at filler loadings of 10-40wt% and evaluated according to ASTM standards. Results revealed significant improvements in tensile, compressive, shear, impact, and hardness strengths at 20-30wt% loadings, after which agglomeration reduced performance. Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) indicated melting transitions between 120-170ºC and oxidation stability above 200ºC. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) confirmed uniform filler dispersion at lower loadings and voids at higher concentrations. Solvent imbibitions tests showed negligible water absorption but significant uptake in benzene and toluene, while soil burial tests revealed limited biodegradation, with composites showing moderate weight loss compared to neat LDPE. These findings suggest that agro-waste reinforced LDPE composites can serve as cost-effective, sustainable materials for packaging, household, and light construction applications.

LDPE composites, agro-waste fillers, mechanical properties, thermal stability, morphology, solvent imbibition, biodegradation

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