Preparation, Characterization and Properties of Biodegradable Composites from Bamboo Fibers—Mechanical and Morphological Study

The realization for the conservation of environment, especially from the contaminations caused as a result of disposal of non-biodegradable waste, compelled researchers to search environment friendly materials as a substitute to these toxic materials. The present research work focuses on the effective usage of cellulose nanocrystals extracted from bamboo fibers as a reinforcement in PLA/PBS polymeric blend. Polymer blend composites were fabricated using the hot-pressing technique with varying cellulose nanocrystalline content. The morphological and mechanical properties of the composite samples were investigated; the results revealed that there was a positive effect of incorporation of cellulose nanocrystals (extracted from bamboo fibers) on the properties of the polymer matrix. The resultant biopolymer composite has one of its potential applications in food packaging where non-toxic and biodegradable materials are highly required.