Paddy straw powder filled PHBV biocomposites: The effects of filler loading and surface modification

The sodium hydroxide (NaOH) was used as chemical modifier to improve the properties of paddy straw powder (PSP) filled Poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV) biocomposites. The effects of filler content and NaOH on tensile properties and morphology of PHBV/PSP biocomposites were investigated. It was found that the addition of PSP to PHBV biocomposites have decreased the tensile strength and elongation at break, however the modulus of elasticity increased. The treated PHBV/PSP biocomposites with NaOH have higher tensile strength and modulus of elasticity but lower elongation at break. Surface treatment using NaOH has enhanced filler–matrix interaction. The better interfacial interaction between PSP and PHBV matrix was confirmed through scanning electron microscope study.