LAUSR

ABSTRACT The extensive use of petroleum-based plastics has led to serious environmental problems worldwide. A viable alternative is to replace these polymers with those that are biodegradable. Polylactic acid (PLA) is a biodegradable polymer with properties that are similar to petroleum-based polymers. However, it has some drawbacks such as brittleness, poor impact strength, low heat distortion, and poor difficulties in thermal stability during processing. In this study, we describe the use of modified jute fibres to reinforce the PLA polymer matrix in order to improve its adhesion. Biocomposites of PLA and cut jute fibres (CJF) were prepared by extrusion. The CJF were modified using three different physical and chemical pretreatments (alkaline, maleic anhydride functionalization, and gamma irradiation). The results showed improvement in the mechanical, thermal, structural, and morphological properties of PLA biocomposites with 10% wt. CJF that were subjected to gamma irradiation at 50 kGy. The biocomposites developed could be used for rigid food packaging and are a good alternative for reducing domestic dependence on petroleum-based thermoplastics.