Mechanical Properties and Biodegradability of the KenafSoy Protein Isolate-PVA Biocomposites

Abstract EN

The effective utilization of original natural fibers as indispensable components in natural resins for developing novel, low-cost, eco-friendly biocomposites is one of the most rapidly emerging fields of research in fiber-reinforced composite.

The objective of this study is to investigate the interfacial adhesion properties, water absorption, biodegradation properties, and mechanical properties of the kenaf/soy protein isolate- (SPI-) PVA composite.

Experimental results showed that 20 wt% poly (vinyl alcohol) (PVA) and 8 wt% glutaraldehyde (GA) created optimum conditions for the consolidation of the composite.

The increase of interfacial shear strength enhanced the composites flexural and tensile strength of the kenaf/SPI-PVA composite.

The kenaf/SPI-PVA mechanical properties of the composite also increased with the content of cross-linking agent.

Results of the biodegradation test indicated that the degradation time of the composite could be controlled by the cross-linking agent.

The degradation rate of the kenaf/SPI-PVA composite with the cross-linking agent was lower than that of the composite without the cross-linking agent.