Development and properties of bio-based polymer composites using PLA and untreated agro-industrial residues

This research developed a bio-based polymer composite using polylactic acid (PLA) and agro-industrial residues from coffee by-products (without chemical modification and the use of coupling agents or stabilizers). Agro-industrial residues, such as spent coffee ground (SCG) and coffee silver skin (CSS) as filler, were added into the PLA matrix in different percentages by weight, from 0.5 to 10 wt%. The bio-composites were prepared using solvent-cast films and were characterized by various techniques, including FT-IR, TGA, DSC, XRD, SEM and mechanical tests. Bio-composites' formation was verified using FT-IR and SEM; the material showed good interfacial interaction, with percentages between 3 and 5 wt%. XRD and DSC determined the percentage crystallinity in the bio-composites. SEM found that the bio-composites form crystals, showing their limits after mechanical testing. The bio-composites exhibited enhanced thermal and mechanical properties compared to neat PLA.

These bio-based composites show great potential for a wide range of applications in the food industry, including disposable and single-use materials, as well as food packaging. Moreover, their use can significantly contribute to the global demand for eco-friendly materials.