Mechanical and thermal properties of microfibril /HDPE composite enhanced by nano-calcium carbonate

Natural fiber-reinforced plastic composites are powerful substitutes for traditional petroleum-based plastics. In order to promote the use of new composite, it is necessary to simplify the process, reduce the cost and meet the performance requirements. Herein, a nano-calcium carbonate (Nano-CaCO3)/ microfilament cellulose (MFC)/ high-density polyethylene (HDPE) composite was fabricated using a straightforward method, and the mechanical and thermal properties of the composite were tested by the relevant characterization. The test results show that a small amount of calcium carbonate can effectively co-strengthen with the main filler microfibril, and only 5 % of nano-calcium carbonate can increase the performance of the composite by 29 %, while its thermal stability and thermal decomposition performance were improved. The composites with superior properties would have potential applications in the field of structural and building, packaging and furniture. [Display omitted]