Utilization of Renewable Filler From Lichen in Low-Density Polyethylene

Abstract

New organic filler, obtained from a local lichen type, Rinodina Poeltii, was utilized in low density polyethylene (LDPE). Thermal characterization of organic filler revealed its suitability to be used as filler during extrusion and injection processes. Filler did not exhibit any weight loss up to 300 degrees C except the dehydration loss at 155 degrees C. Unmodified filler was compounded as 5, 10, and 15% by weight with LDPE. Filler addition resulted in a decrease for both tensile strength and % elongation at break. However, an increase was observed in elastic modulus. The compatibility of the filler material and polymer matrix was also found to be good as a result of absence of pull out voids in SEM observation. (C) 2015 Society of Plastics Engineers