Article
Polymer Science
Salina Budin, Mariatti Jaafar
Summary: This study examined the mechanical properties degradation of polylactic acid (PLA) in natural weathering and seawater environments, finding that degradation was faster in recycled PLA (RPLA) than in virgin PLA (VPLA). Additionally, hydrolysis degradation was found to be more predominant than thermal degradation, especially in seawater environment.
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Dashan Mi, Zhongguo Zhao, Haiqing Bai
Summary: Shear and thermal processing can affect the orientation and dispersion of nanoparticles, thus influencing the conductive and mechanical properties of nanocomposites. The synergistic effects of shear flow and Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) nucleating ability on the crystallization mechanisms have been proven. Different molding methods were used to produce Polylactic acid/Carbon nanotubes (PLA/CNTs) nanocomposites, and annealing was applied to study the effects on electrical conductivity and mechanical properties. The volume exclusion effect significantly impacts the oriented CNTs, resulting in a significant increase in transverse conductivity.
Article
Polymer Science
Vasile Cojocaru, Doina Frunzaverde, Calin-Octavian Miclosina, Gabriela Marginean
Summary: Polylactic acid (PLA), due to its low melting temperature and carbon footprint advantages, is widely used in additive manufacturing, particularly fused filament fabrication (FFF). The research conducted by the authors of this paper systematically reviews the influence of process parameters on the mechanical properties of PLA specimens additively manufactured by FFF, focusing on six process parameters: layer thickness, printing speed, printing temperature, build plate temperature, build orientation, and raster angle. The mechanical behavior of the specimens was evaluated using tensile, compressive, and bending tests.
Article
Materials Science, Paper & Wood
Jingxiu He, Zhe Sun, Yajun Chen, Bo Xu, Juan Li, Lijun Qian
Summary: Cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) are used as a bio-based carbon source in an intumescent system. However, CNCs have low thermal stability and adverse impact on performance. By designing phosphazene-containing CNCs (PIN-CNCs), thermal stability and charring ability are improved. PLA composites with PIN-CNCs and flame retardants show enhanced flame retardancy and mechanical properties.
Article
Polymer Science
Teodoro Klaser, Luka Balen, Zeljko Skoko, Luka Pavic, Ana Santic
Summary: This study aims to investigate the influence of different glass fibers on the preparation of PLA composites and their structural and physical properties. The results show that all types of glass fibers improve the structural, morphological, thermal, and electrical properties of PLA, independent of fiber composition and aspect ratio. These composites have potential applications due to their high mechanical strength and electrical insulating properties.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Chuanhui Gao, Picheng Chen, Ying Ma, Luyang Sun, Yuling Yan, Yu Ding, Lishui Sun
Summary: This study successfully synthesized a bio-based antibacterial agent PDI and incorporated it into a polylactic acid matrix along with an antioxidant and a plasticizer, resulting in composite membranes with antibacterial, antioxidant, and anti-ultraviolet properties. The mechanical properties of the composite film were significantly improved, and the antibacterial rate against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus reached over 95%. The PLA/oVL/PDI composite films effectively extended the shelf life of fresh bananas and apples for 5 days.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF BIOLOGICAL MACROMOLECULES
(2023)
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
T. Angelin Swetha, Abhispa Bora, K. Mohanrasu, P. Balaji, Rathinam Raja, Kumar Ponnuchamy, Govarthanan Muthusamy, A. Arun
Summary: Plastics are crucial for food packaging, as they preserve food, ensure shelf life, and guarantee food safety. However, their extensive use has led to long-term environmental pollution. To address this, researchers and manufacturers are developing eco-friendly biodegradable polymers like polylactic acid (PLA). PLA, a compostable thermoplastic biopolymer, is renewable and can be used to produce various materials. This chapter focuses on food packaging techniques, waste in the food industry, classification of biopolymers, PLA synthesis, the importance of PLA properties in food packaging, and technologies for processing PLA in food packaging.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF BIOLOGICAL MACROMOLECULES
(2023)
Article
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Saurabh Pawale, Karun Kalia, Shallal Alshammari, Dylan Cronin, Xiao Zhang, Amir Ameli
Summary: This study reports the fabrication and characterization of entirely biobased composites made with polylactic acid (PLA) and deep eutectic solvent (DES)-extracted lignin. The results reveal that PLA/DES lignin biocomposites outperform their PLA/CAL counterparts in terms of morphology, thermal properties, and mechanical properties. SEM results show better lignin dispersion and smaller lignin agglomerates in PLA/DES lignin composites compared to PLA/CAL composites. TGA and DSC analysis reveal that DES lignin has a smaller effect on the thermal properties of PLA compared to CAL lignin. Tensile testing shows that PLA/DES lignin composites have significantly higher tensile strength and elongation at break than PLA/CAL composites.
ACS APPLIED POLYMER MATERIALS
(2022)
Article
Materials Science, Composites
Zhongsen Zhang, Wenzhao Wang, Yan Li, Kunkun Fu, Xingrui Tong, Bingyan Cao, Biqiong Chen
Summary: A green and efficient dispersion method was developed to prepare cellulose nanofiber (CNF) reinforced polylactic acid (PLA) composites for fused deposition modeling (FDM) 3D printing. The addition of surface-modified CNFs enhanced the flowability and mechanical performance of the composites. The study has significant implications for improving the performance of 3D printing materials.
COMPOSITES COMMUNICATIONS
(2023)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Jiahang Zhong, Yong Xin
Summary: In this study, AT (attapulgite)/PLA/TPS biocomposites and films were prepared by melt blending technique using PLA and TPS as matrix, polyethylene glycol (PEG) as plasticizing modifier of PLA and AT clay as additive. The effect of AT content on the performance of AT/PLA/TPS composites was investigated. The results showed that the addition of AT nanoparticles improved the tensile strength and elongation at break of the composites, and significantly improved the water vapor barrier performance of the films. The obtained AT/PLA/TPS biocomposites showed potential in packaging engineering and injection molding products, especially when renewability and full biodegradability of the material are required.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF BIOLOGICAL MACROMOLECULES
(2023)
Article
Materials Science, Paper & Wood
Nematollah Nouri-Sadegh, Mohammad Dahmardeh Ghalehno, Babak Nosrati, Behzad Kord
Summary: Graphene nanoparticles can effectively enhance the mechanical properties of polylactic acid and wood flour-based green nanocomposites, while reducing their water absorption and thickness swelling. The addition of 2% graphene nanoparticles has the optimal effect on the properties of the nanocomposites.
WOOD MATERIAL SCIENCE & ENGINEERING
(2023)
Article
Materials Science, Paper & Wood
Zhaozhe Yang, Xinhao Feng, Min Xu, Denis Rodrigue
Summary: An eco-friendly biocomposite was prepared using modified poplar fiber and polylactic acid (PLA) via 3D printing technology for the first time, with optimized printing parameters and fiber content to achieve superior properties. The effect of filament orientation on the properties of the biocomposite was also studied to determine the most efficient and economical utilization of the materials for different applications.
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Ruiying Zou, Yuanfeng Wei, Weijian Yang, Yuxin Li, Hongyu Lv, Jing Zhao, Chengbin Liu
Summary: A new sustainable biocomposite nanofiber mat, called ZIF-8@PLA/NFM, was developed for the removal of As(III) contamination. The mat demonstrated fast kinetics and high utilization of ZIF-8 nanoparticles for effective As(III) removal, especially in combination with H2O2. The study provides a novel and efficient approach for As(III) decontamination using MOFs-based biocomposites.
MATERIALS TODAY CHEMISTRY
(2023)
Article
Engineering, Multidisciplinary
Ramengmawii Siakeng, Mohammad Jawaid, Mohammad Asim, Hassan Fouad, Sameer Awad, Naheed Saba, Suchart Siengchin
Summary: This study investigates the effects of incorporating untreated and alkali-treated Coir Fibres (CF) and pineapple leaf fibres (PALF) into PLA biocomposites on flexural, morphological, and dynamic mechanical properties. The results show that the treated C1P1 hybrid composites (C1P1A) exhibited the highest flexural strength and modulus, with good fibre-matrix adhesion observed in untreated and treated biocomposites. Dynamic mechanical analysis revealed that C1P1A had the highest glass transition temperature and storage modulus, making it a promising material for various lightweight industrial applications.
JOURNAL OF BIONIC ENGINEERING
(2021)
Article
Materials Science, Textiles
M. N. M. Azlin, S. M. Sapuan, M. Y. M. Zuhri, E. S. Zainudin
Summary: The incorporation of woven polyester fibers in polylactic acid (PLA) composites significantly enhances their mechanical, thermal, and morphological properties. Optimal performance is achieved through the optimization of fiber content. The research findings indicate that these composites have potential applications in the automotive component industry.
FIBERS AND POLYMERS
(2022)
Review
Polymer Science
M. R. M. Asyraf, M. R. Ishak, Agusril Syamsir, A. L. Amir, N. M. Nurazzi, M. N. F. Norrrahim, Mochamad Asrofi, M. Rafidah, R. A. Ilyas, Mohamad Zakir Abd Rashid, M. R. Razman
Summary: This manuscript reviews previous literature on filament-wound polymer composites and their potential applications as cross arm structures in latticed transmission towers. The current trend of using pultruded glass fibre-reinforced polymer composites for cross arms without additional configurations may lead to sudden failure due to creep and laminate crack propagation caused by extreme tropical climate and dynamic wind loads. Previous literature suggests that glass fibre-reinforced polymer composites exhibit superior corrosion resistance, strength, resilience to extreme conditions, and serviceability. Additionally, these composites can also function as good insulators in lightning impulse strength. Therefore, it is recommended to adopt a core structure as reinforcement in the cross arm design using filament winding process to ensure long-term structural integrity and withstand extreme environmental conditions.
Article
Polymer Science
Balwant Singh, Raman Kumar, Jasgurpreet Chohan, Shubham Sharma, Jujhar Singh, Rushdan Ahmad Ilyas, Sanjay M. Rangappa, Suchart Siengchin, Kakur Naresh, Sowmya Raghu, Robin James
Summary: Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) is an efficient method commonly used for the development of biomedical implants, bio-sensors, and customized products. This study focuses on the calculation and measurement of the melt flow rate of copper reinforced ABS and nylon 6 thermoplastic matrices using FDM. The results show that the melt flow index decreases with an increase in copper powder concentration in nylon 6, while it initially increases and then decreases with the addition of more copper powder particulates in ABS.
HIGH PERFORMANCE POLYMERS
(2023)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Faris M. AL-Oqla, S. M. Sapuan
Summary: This study investigates the effects of various structural and treatment parameters on the mechanical properties of low-cost biomaterials made from Mediterranean corn agro waste lignocellulosic fibers. The results show that the produced composites can enhance tensile strength, but increasing fiber content decreases the modulus of elasticity.
JOURNAL OF MATERIAL CYCLES AND WASTE MANAGEMENT
(2023)
Review
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Nafeesa Mohd Kanafi, Anis Abdul Ghani, Norizah Abdul Rahman, Azira Abd Aziz, S. M. Sapuan
Summary: Natural rubber possesses superior performance properties compared to synthetic rubbers. Self-healing natural rubber has emerged as a sustainable material with the ability to recycle and repair rubber products. This article focuses on the material design principles for achieving self-healing capability in natural rubber, as well as testing methods and potential applications. Synthetic rubbers are also included for comparison and future strategies.
JOURNAL OF MATERIALS SCIENCE
(2023)
Article
Forestry
Tengku Anita Raja Hussin, Rohana Hassan, Buan Anshari, Azman Md Nor, S. M. Sapuan
Summary: This research presents a statistical study of the glued-in rod splice connection for Mengkulang glulam timber. The use of statistical analysis is a relatively new approach to evaluate the performance of glued-in rod splice connections. Glued-in rods have several advantages over traditional mechanical connections, and the standard design for glued-in rods is currently based on estimated extrapolation. The main objective of this research was to develop a pull-out model and validate its effectiveness for glued-in rods parallel and perpendicular to the grain directions using SPSS.
Review
Polymer Science
N. H. Taharuddin, R. Jumaidin, M. R. Mansor, K. Z. Hazrati, J. Tarique, M. R. M. Asyraf, M. R. Razman
Summary: Dragon fruit, belonging to the family Cactaceae, is processed extensively due to increasing demand, resulting in significant amounts of waste materials. Transforming these waste materials, such as peels and seeds, into value-added components is crucial for managing food waste and addressing environmental concerns. Two popular varieties, pitaya (Stenocereus) and pitahaya (Hylocereus), differ in taste, with the former being sour and the latter being sweet. Extracting pectin from dragon fruit peel can be an innovative technology to minimize waste and enhance the value of the peel. Dragon fruit is currently utilized in various applications, including bioplastics, natural dyes, and cosmetics. Further research is recommended to explore its potential in different fields and foster innovation in its usage.
Article
Polymer Science
Zatil Hafila Kamaruddin, Ridhwan Jumaidin, Zatil Hazrati Kamaruddin, Muhammad Rizal Muhammad Asyraf, Muhammad Rizal Razman, Tabrej Khan
Summary: This paper studied the effect of Cymbopogan citratus fibre (CCF) on the properties of thermoplastic cassava starch/palm wax (TCPS/PW) composites. The results showed that adding CCF significantly improved the impact strength, reduced solubility, and increased water resistance of the composites. Additionally, the thickness of the samples decreased with increasing CCF content.
Article
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Abdulrahman A. B. A. Mohammed, Zaimah Hasan, Abdoulhdi A. Borhana Omran, Abdulhafid M. Elfaghi, Yasir Hassan Ali, Norie A. A. Akeel, R. A. Ilyas, S. M. Sapuan
Summary: The addition of sugar palm fiber to starch, polyvinyl alcohol based film has significantly improved the physical properties and thermal stability. However, the enhancement in mechanical properties is limited.
JOURNAL OF MATERIALS RESEARCH AND TECHNOLOGY-JMR&T
(2023)
Article
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
F. S. M. Radzi, M. J. Suriani, A. Abu Bakar, A. Khalina, C. M. Ruzaidi, W. B. Wan Nik, M. Awang, F. Zulkifli, S. Abdullah, R. A. Ilyas, Sayed M. Eldin
Summary: In the era of globalization, the decrease in synthetic resources has led global communities to explore natural fibres as alternative materials for green technology development. This study focuses on the growth of lignocellulose fibre-reinforced composites, which are abundant, sustainable, biodegradable, and low-cost. By reinforcing polyester resin with natural fibres such as sugar palm, kenaf, and bamboo, the mechanical properties and water absorption properties of the hybrid composites were investigated. The results showed that the composite with 45 wt% kenaf fibre had better tensile properties, and the composite with 60 wt% sugar palm fibre performed better in the Charpy impact strength test. The study concluded that sugar palm fibres demonstrated the best water resistance.
JOURNAL OF MATERIALS RESEARCH AND TECHNOLOGY-JMR&T
(2023)
Review
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
M. Imraan, R. A. Ilyas, A. S. Norfarhana, Sneh Punia Bangar, Victor Feizal Knight, M. N. F. Norrrahim
Summary: The widespread acceptance of natural fibres as green materials is influenced by the depletion of petroleum resources and the growing awareness of environmental issues. Sugar palm tree is a promising source of natural fibres, especially for composite materials. However, there are inconsistent data and values regarding the mechanical and physical properties of these fibres. Therefore, it is important to organize data for the design and future study of sugar palm fibres.
JOURNAL OF MATERIALS RESEARCH AND TECHNOLOGY-JMR&T
(2023)
Review
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Muhammad Harussani Moklis, Cheng Shuo, Sasipa Boonyubol, Jeffrey S. Cross
Summary: Efficient reduction of glycerol into various products via the electrocatalytic reduction (ECR) process has been studied, addressing the underutilization of glycerol. However, challenges such as catalyst costs, product yields, and selectivity need to be overcome for the widespread application of glycerol ECR technology.
Article
Materials Science, Composites
Haja Syed Hussain, Mohd Ridzuan Mohd Jamir, Mohd Shukry Abdul Majid, S. M. Sapuan, Ferriawan Yudhanto, Aris Widyo Nugroho, Muhammad Faiz Hilmi Rani
Summary: In this study, the friction and wear properties of Furcraea foetida fiber-reinforced epoxy composites were investigated. The effect of fiber content on the tribological behavior of the composites was evaluated. The results showed that the composite with 50 vol% of fibers had the lowest frictional force and coefficient of friction (COF), while the composite with 60 vol% demonstrated the best wear resistance. This study provides valuable insights into the tribological behavior of the composites and identifies the optimal volume fractions for improved friction and wear performance.
POLYMER COMPOSITES
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Abd Latif Amir, Mohammad Ridzwan Ishak, Noorfaizal Yidris, Mohamed Yusoff Mohd Zuhri, Muhammad Rizal Muhammad Asyraf, Sharifah Zarina Syed Zakaria
Summary: This study investigated the effect of woven glass-fibre prepreg orientation on the flexural behavior of honeycomb sandwich panels. The results showed that the 0° orientation angle exhibited higher maximum load capacity and flexural modulus, making it suitable for applications requiring better bending performance.
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Mohd Supian Abu Bakar, Agusril Syamsir, Abdulrahman Alhayek, Muhammad Rizal Muhammad Asyraf, Zarina Itam, Shaikh Muhammad Mubin Shaik, Nurhanani Abd Aziz, Tarique Jamal, Siti Aminah Mohd Mansor
Summary: This study investigates the flexural creep behavior of pultruded composite glass fiber-reinforced polymer (pGFRP) cross-arms through experimental and numerical methods to assess their performance and sustainability in composite cross-arm structure applications. The aim is to understand the strain rate variations during different stages of creep and estimate the stiffness reduction factors for failure prediction. The findings show that different models project significantly different strain predictions, with the Burger model's forecasts potentially more reasonable due to the harsh environment expected for the cross-arms.
Article
Materials Science, Composites
J. Yusuf, S. M. Sapuan, Umer Rashid, R. A. Ilyas, M. R. Hassan
Summary: The efficient inclusion of GNPs as nano-fillers in green polymer matrices produced from biomass carbon significantly improves mechanical and thermal properties. The study successfully dispersed GNPs in green epoxy using a solution blending technique and ultrasonic bath, resulting in nanocomposites with optimal dispersion. The addition of low wt% of GNPs also enhanced the thermal stability and mechanical performance of the green nanocomposites.
POLYMER COMPOSITES
(2023)
