Estudo da caracterização de um compósito polimérico com matriz de polipropileno e carga particulada do endocarpo seco do cocos nucífera linn

Abstract

The use of natural residues as a reinforcement in the production of plastic composites has enabled the improvement of its mechanical structure and saved the utilization of synthetic reinforcement that has manufacturing processes and recycling harmful to human health. In this study were fabricated polypropylene composites with 10 and 20 %wt of coconut (Cocos Nucífera Linn) shell load. To the optimization of the interfacial bond between particulate and polymer matrix were utilized a granulometric range of 0,5 a 0,263 mm and fabricated using temperature maximum of 200 ºC, above the glass transition temperature of lignocellulosic residue, by extrusion and injection moulding. The properties of particulate, composites and polymers were investigated by density, tensile and flexural testing, thermogravimetry and Scanning electron microscope. The polymer had its ductility and mechanical resistance decreased with particulate addition, thus, its modulus of elasticity increased 4,0% to 10%wt and 11,0% to 20%wt in relation to polypropylene. The flexural modulus of elasticity increased 6,4% to 10%wt and 8,8 to 20%wt in relation to polypropylene. The thermogravimery demonstrated the degradation temperatures of lignocellulosic residues (hemicellulose between 210,80 and 255,32 ºC, cellulose between 255,32 and 328,31, lignin between 328,31 e 495,82 ºC. For density testing, it was observed that the composites have a density values close to polypropylene, allowing the application in lightweight structures.