Enhancement of impact resistance of biodegradable polymer using bamboo charcoal particles

Injection moulded bamboo charcoal (BC) particles were used to reinforce Polylactic Acid (PLA) polymer to enhance its mechanical properties. It was found that by increasing small amount of BC particles into PLA would enhance its impact strength, tensile strength and modulus of elasticity. The formation of mirror, mist and hackled zones of PLA/BC samples observed under fractographic images through an optical microscopy has explained their energy absorption mechanism. To achieve better mechanical properties of PLA/BC composites with the consideration of ease of manufacturing, it was found that the optimal percentage of BC particles for PLA/BC composites is 7.5 wt%.