Abstract:

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) composites reinforced with treated bio-filler from Argan-Nut Shell (ANS) at various filler contents are prepared by extrusion and injection molding processes. The microstructures of the composites are charac-terized by Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIS) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM); the thermal stability is analyzed by Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA), and their mechanical properties are investigated by dynamical mechanical analysis and rheological testing. The morphological and structural results indicate an improvement in adhesion between the ANS fillers and HDPE matrix upon alkali treatment. The mechanical properties of the composites show a significant increase in young’s modulus with the addition of filler, a gain of 58% is marked compared to neat polymer. Thermal analysis reveals that the incorporation of bio-filler in polymer results in a decrease in decomposition temperatures. This research offers an ecological alternative to upgrade the valorization of abundant and unexploited Moroccan resources. In addition, the possibility of finding uses for ANS in composite manufacturing will help open new markets for what is normally considered waste or for use in low value products.

Key words: argan tree, argan nut shell particles, polymer composite, melt extrusion, mechanical properties