Cellulose Microfiber-Reinforced Styrene–Ethylene–Butylene–Styrene Composites: Structure, Properties, and Interfacial Interactions Mediated by Ethylene Vinyl Alcohol Compatibilizer

Abstract

This study incorporates celery pulp microfibers into styrene–ethylene–butylene–styrene (SEBS) composites, aiming to generate value from waste. The study addresses compatibility issues between hydrophilic fibers and the hydrophobic polymer matrix by using ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH) as a compatibilizer. Results show significant enhancement of mechanical properties in EVOH-compatibilized composites. The compatibilized fiber composite (SE-05) exhibits higher tensile strength (7.437 MPa) and Young’s modulus (63.766 MPa) compared to the uncompatibilized composite (SEBS/cellulose [SC]-05) and SEBS matrix. Both composites exhibit decreased elongation at break with increased fiber loading. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis indicates the incorporation of EVOH and its interaction with cellulose microfibers, as evidenced by enhanced O─H and C─O stretching regions. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) micrographs further show improved fiber dispersion and reduced pull out in EVOH-containing composites, suggesting enhanced interfacial adhesion and load transfer. The composites demonstrate enhanced dynamic mechanical behavior, with higher storage modulus and glass transition temperature than the matrix polymer. These improvements suggest the potential of eco-friendly, sustainable composites for diverse applications, including biomedical and packaging industries. By utilizing cellulosic fibers which obtained from celery pulp residue, this study creates advanced polymeric materials with enhanced properties through melt mixing and molding techniques. This approach highlights an innovative solution to environmental concerns while adding value to waste materials.