Enzymatically treated curaua fibers in poly(butylene succinate)-based biocomposites

The aim of this work is to elucidate the reinforcing potential of enzymatically treated curaua fibers in biodegradable poly(butylene succinate) (PBS)-based composites. The effect of two different enzymes, i.e. cellulase and pectinase, was evaluated. Untreated and enzymatically treated curaua fibers were characterized in terms of thermal stability (TGA), crystallinity (XRD) and surface morphology (SEM). The composite characteristics were investigated by mechanical test (tensile and flexural resistance), thermal stability and SEM micrographs of the fractured surfaces. Enzymatic treatments resulted in a significant change in morphology of curaua fibers, while their thermal stability and crystallinity were not affected much. SEM investigation of tensile fractured surfaces of composites showed strong adhesion between fibers and matrix.