A biodegradable composite material based on polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) and carnauba fibers

In this investigation, carnauba fibers obtained from the leaves of the carnauba palm tree were chemically modified and their potential for the development of a biodegradable composite was evaluated. Fiber treatments to improve interfacial bonding were carried out by alkali, peroxide, potassium permanganate and acetylation. Biodegradable composites were prepared using carnauba fibers and polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) as matrix. Mechanical properties of the composites prepared with 10 wt.% of short carnauba fibers were investigated and related to fiber treatment. According to the results, the tensile strength of the composites made from peroxide treated fibers was superior to those using untreated fibers or any other fiber treatment. SEM observations on the fracture surface of the composites suggest improved fiber–matrix adhesion after peroxide treatment. This surface modification of the fibers was found to contribute to the enhancement of the mechanical properties of the composites, even though the tensile strength of the fibers was slightly reduced. Dynamic mechanical thermal analyses suggested improvement in storage modulus of the composites reinforced with carnauba fibers at higher temperatures as compared to the neat polymer.