Development and characterization of a new composite material based on polyvinyl chloride and common reed flour

Abstract

The objective of this work is to develop and characterize a composite material with a polyvinyl chloride matrix and filler of plant origin, common reed flour. The filler is obtained by grinding and sieving. The composites were prepared on a two-roll mixer. Filler contents of up to 30% by weight were added in order to study the effect of this plant powder on the mechanical properties in tensile, water absorption and morphology. The results obtained from the characterizations carried out show that the PVC matrix becomes more rigid but not resistant due to the absence of adhesion between the PVC and the plant filler. PVC which contains plant powder absorbs more water than pure PVC. The dispersion of the filler within the matrix is influenced by the difference in nature between the two phases of the composites.