MIIX Virtua

In the present research work, natural seaweed microparticles obtained from Kappaphycus alvarezii waste were used as fillers in PBAT biopolymer in order to obtain bio-composites for application in sustainable product. The integration of cost-effective organic additives and biodegradable polymers has proven to be effective in manufacturing economically feasible composites, thereby addressing environmental issues and enabling the development of products with improved mechanical properties. PBAT is a low-crystallinity polymer distinguished by its high ductility. A polymer composite reinforced with 10wt%, 20wt% and 30wt% amounts of seaweed have been prepared and characterized for its tensile properties and morphological. The modulus of elasticity of all composites exhibited a higher value compared to the neat polymer, with the extent of improvement being dependent on the proportion of seaweed particles incorporated. Morphological interpretation through scanning electron microscopy (SEM) reveals improved interaction and interfacial adhesion between PBAT blend and seaweed particles. The distribution of the seaweed inside the PBAT blend was uniform and consistent. The results reported in the present work support the idea that the above-mentioned organic particles can be used as filler material to obtain environmentally friendly polymer composites with improved properties.