Formulation and Features of Chitosan and Natural Fiber Blended Bio-composite towards Environmental Sustainability
J. Environ. Nanotechnol., Volume 14, No 1 (2025) pp. 104-112
Abstract
This experimental investigation deals with the mechanical and tribological characteristics of biocomposite material made from polylactic acid (PLA), kenaf fiber (KF) and nano chitosan particles (nCp) through injection moulding approach for possible applications in biodegradable packaging, tissue engineering, wound dressing, and interior components of automobiles. Varying proportions of nCp (extracted from the crab shell) viz., 0, 1, 2, 3, and 4 wt.% are added in PLA matrix, strengthened with 30% of KF. The prepared composites are characterized as per the ASTM standard. Research indicates that incorporating 3 wt.% nCp into PLA-KF composites, produces noticeable improvements in mechanical strength. nCp acts as an effective interfacial agent, improving the bonding between PLA and KF leading to better stress distribution and higher mechanical performance. However, higher concentrations of nCp result in diminishing properties due to agglomeration or phase separation. nCp acts as a filler or surface modifier that enhances the composite's ability to withstand wear and reduce friction between surfaces in contact. Higher nCp addition (4 wt.%) results in poor dispersion, resulting in uneven stress distribution and weaker bonding of fiber with matrix, surface defects and accelerated material degradation occurs during use.
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Reference
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