Mechanical properties and degradation of starch-filled polystyrene coground composites

Abstract

A vegetable biodegradable filler was incorporated in a synthetic matrix to produce composite materials, using a co-grinding process. This process permits a better dispersion of the filler in the matrix and better interactions at the materials interface. The mechanical properties of the as-produced composite are slightly better than those of blends, and are not significantly enhanced compared to those of the matrix alone, but this process permits to reduce the consumption of synthetic polymers. Moreover, an adapted co-grinding time permits to offer good water-resistant properties to the composite compared to blends.