Biodegradability and tensile properties of compatibilised polyethylene/rice bran film

Abstract

In this study, a degradable film based on polyethylene (PE) and Rice bran (RB) as filler were developed. Low density polyethylene (LDPE) and RB (0 - 5 %) were prepared by using twin screw extruder and blown film machine. The effect of 1 parts per hundred (phr) of Ultra PlastTM10 (TP10) compatibiliser on the biodegradability, tensile properties and morphological properties of LDPE/RB films was evaluated. The presence of high RB contents had an adverse effect on the tensile strength of LDPE/RB films. Incorporation of compatibiliser increased the tensile strength of LDPE/RB films. The addition of TP10 in the films has enhanced the interfacial adhesion, distribution and dispersion phase and thus, improved the tensile properties of the films. The addition of RB in LDPE/RB films has increased their biodegradability due to the attacks of microorganism in the soil. Incorporation of TP10 in LDPE/RB films led to a negative effect on the rate of biodegradation.