Effect of Compatibilizing Agents and Moisture Exposure on Tensile Properties of Rice Husk/Nanoclay Hybrid Filler-filled Low Density Polyethylene Nanocomposite Films

摘要

Rice husk (RH)/nanoclay (MMT) filled low density polyethylene (LDPE) nanocomposite films were prepared by extrusion blown film. In order to promote compatibility and interfacial adhesion of the immiscible system (hydrophilic rice husk and hydrophobic polyethylene), two different commercially available maleated polyolefin copolymers were used as compatibilizer. The effects of each compatibilizer and moisture absorption on tensile properties of developed nanocomposite films were evaluated. Scanning electron microscopy of nanocomposite films was carried out for morphological studies. Results indicated that addition of the compatibilizer improved dispersion of the filler. The tensile strength of the composites decreased with the RH loading, but the tensile properties were significantly improved with the addition of the compatibilizer. It is clear from results that prolonged moisture exposure not adversely affected the tensile properties, where these properties were retained if not improved.