In a significant stride toward sustainable materials, researchers have successfully integrated jackfruit wood sawdust into a blend of polylactic acid (PLA) and high-density polyethylene (HDPE), creating a promising bio-composite with potential applications in packaging and agriculture. This innovative approach not only addresses waste reduction but also enhances material properties, offering a cost-effective and eco-friendly alternative to traditional fossil-based materials.
Led by AnhTuan Phung from the Department of Applied Chemical Materials at the Hanoi University of Science and Technology, the study, published in the *Journal of Applied Science and Engineering* (Kỳ Yếu Tạp Chí Khoa Học Và Kỹ Thuật Áp Dụng), demonstrates the potential of wood sawdust as a sustainable filler in bio-composites. By incorporating 0–30% jackfruit wood sawdust into a PLA/HDPE blend using a twin-screw extruder and injection molding, the team achieved composites with improved mechanical and thermal properties.
The integration of jackfruit wood sawdust was confirmed through Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) revealed that the addition of sawdust lowered the cold crystallization temperature of PLA, indicating better molecular organization while maintaining a stable melting temperature. Higher sawdust content (20–30%) slightly increased crystallinity, suggesting enhanced structural integrity.
Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images showed areas of weak adhesion between PLA and sawdust, but the use of polyethylene-grafted maleic anhydride (MAPE) significantly improved bonding in some regions. Dynamic mechanical thermal analysis (DMTA) demonstrated that sawdust reduced the storage modulus at low temperatures but increased stiffness at higher temperatures, acting as a reinforcing agent.
“AnhTuan Phung noted, “The results suggest that jackfruit wood sawdust effectively strengthens PLA-based composites while maintaining their thermal stability. This research highlights the potential of wood sawdust as a sustainable filler, improving material properties while promoting waste reduction.”
The study’s findings are particularly relevant for the energy sector, where the demand for sustainable and cost-effective materials is growing. Bio-composites like those developed in this research could revolutionize packaging and agricultural applications, offering biodegradable and economically viable solutions.
As the world shifts toward a circular economy, the integration of wood sawdust into bio-composites represents a significant step forward. Future research will explore additional mechanical properties to optimize performance and expand industrial applications, paving the way for a more sustainable future.
This research not only underscores the importance of innovative materials but also highlights the potential for waste reduction and environmental stewardship. As AnhTuan Phung and his team continue to push the boundaries of sustainable materials, the energy sector stands to benefit from these groundbreaking developments.