Preparation of the pistachio shell reinforced PLA biocomposites: Effect of filler treatment and PLA maleation

In this study, poly(lactic acid) (PLA)/pistachio shell (PS) biocomposites were fabricated by melt functionalization through a one-step compatibilization process in varying PS filler rates (0-30%). To enhance interfacial adhesion, alkaline-silane pre-treatment was applied to PS, and PLA was grafted with maleic anhydride (MA). The effect of filler ratio, pre-treatment, and maleation steps on the mechanical, thermal, and morphological properties of biocomposites was investigated. The tensile and flexural analysis showed that composites with optimum mechanical properties were obtained by blending 20% of pre-treated PS with maleated PLA. Mechanic and thermal analyses were performed to examine fiber/matrix surface compatibility. The mechanical analysis of biocomposites, such as tensile/flexural strength and modulus were determined with a universal testing machine. Thermal analysis and thermal degradation of biocomposites were determined by using Differential Scanning Calorimetry and TG/DTG. Morphological analysis performed by SEM proved that the composites prepared by maleated PLA and pre-treated PS showed better adhesion between the fiber and the matrix.