Title: Combined Effect of a Bio-Filler and Pro-Oxidants on the Degradation of Linear Low Density Polyethylene
Authors: Dilfi, Anna K. F., Kurian, Thomas, Subin, Raghul S., Bhat, Saritha G.
Volume: 1
Issue: 3
Pages: 19-36
Publication Date: 2017/05/28//
Abstract:
Linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE) was blended with a bio-filler (starch, 15 weight %, 300 mesh size) by melt mixing. Various dosages (0.25, 0.5, 0.75 and 1 weight %) of pro-oxidants [iron oxide, manganese dioxide, titanium dioxide (anatase and rutile grades)] were added to this LLDPE-starch blend. The combined effect of the bio-filler and the pro-oxidant in every composition was determined by evaluating the mechanical properties, differential scanning calorimetry and melt flow indices. The biodegradation of the compositions was established by subjecting the samples to biodegradation in a shake culture flask containing amylase producing vibrios and soil burial. The extent of biodegradation was established by measurement of mechanical properties and weight loss. The morphology of the samples before and after biodegradation was also carried out using scanning electron microscope (SEM). The photodegradation of the linear low density polyethylene containing both the bio-filler and pro-oxidant was established by exposing the samples to ultraviolet (UV) radiation for 240 hours and checking the mechanical properties before and after UV irradiation. The results suggest that the combination of a bio-filler and a pro-oxidant improves the biodegradation and photodegradation of linear low density polyethylene.