(614c) Bio-Nanocomposites with Graphene and Date Seed Powder As Fillers

Studies on bio-nanocomposites with graphene as well as bio-filler (date seed powder) are presented. The polymer matrices used were bio-polyesters, bio-polyamides and poly(lactic acid).

In the case of biopolymer – graphene nanocomposites, enhancements in the mechanical, thermal and rheological behaviors of the polymer were observed at low loadings of the filler. Complete exfoliation of graphene sheets in the polymers was not achieved, though a varying degree of dispersion was observed depending on the nature (or polarity) of the polymer used and its corresponding interactions with the graphene surface.

In the case of ‘true’ bio-nanocomposites containing date seed powder as filler, a functional system was demonstrated where both the filler as well as polymer matrices are bio-based. A large number of bio-nanocomposites with inorganic fillers have been reported in the literature, however, the inorganic filler phase can pose problems with the biodegradability of polymers. By replacing such inorganic fillers with bio-fillers, one can circumvent this problem. However, the bio-filler used is required to be functional which brings significant enhancement in the polymer properties. In the current study, systems consisting of bio-polymers based on polyesters and polyamides reinforced with date seed powder were significantly improved in mechanical, thermal and rheological performance. A larger amount of date seed powder was necessary to obtain the required performance as compared to graphene.