Thermal properties of recycled polystyrene composite reinforced with cellulose from sugarcane bagasse

Expanded polystyrene (EPS) is a recyclable polymer widely used in the manufacture of packaging for acoustic insulation, protection of durable consumer goods and in the construction industry. The PS is easily recyclable with increasing temperature, giving new materials. However, thermal properties can be affected, mainly if added of natural fibers. In this context, this work objective to study the thermal properties of recycled polystyrene composites reinforced with cellulose fibers from sugarcane bagasse. The recycled composites of PS reinforced 10 and 20 wt% cellulose bagasse were obtained by extrusion, and characterized by thermal analysis thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) and heat deflection temperature (HDT). The results showed that the fibers rich in residual lignin act as reinforcement improving the stiffness of the material with the addition of the fibers, as well as promoted the increase of the heat deflection temperature for the composites. The thermal stability of the composites is intermediate between the fiber and matrix, decreasing with the increase of fibers content. Therefore, it is concluded that the use of EPS as a matrix in the obtainment composites reinforced with natural fibers is viable and suggest the use of this residue as an excellent alternative for the recycling industry.