Recyclability analysis of PLA/Sisal fiber biocomposites

This study presents the recyclability analysis of PLA/Sisal biocomposites comprising sodium bicarbonate treated Sisal fibers (30 wt%). The biocomposites were recycled (8 times) using the extrusion process. The tensile strength of injection molded biocomposites declined by 20.9% up to the third recycle. The dynamic mechanical analysis revealed a severe reduction in storage and loss modulus beyond third recycle. The morphological and thermal characterization of recycled biocomposites also revealed severe fiber and matrix degradation. The infrared spectroscopy exhibited hydrolysis as one of the causes of PLA degradation after recycling. The recycling of PLA/Sisal biocomposites beyond third recycle is not recommended. However, the biocomposites recycled up to third recycle can be used for making products for low to medium strength non-structural applications.