Polyethylene Matrix Composites Reinforced with Keratin Fibers Obtained from Waste Chicken Feathers

The paper presents a polyethylene-based composites preparing, using keratin fiber obtained from waste chicken feathers. Keratin fibers were obtained with no chemical treatment. Keratin fibers were obtained by mechanical treatment of waste chicken feathers. Fibers have been extracted by all parts of the feathers, namely rachis, barb, afterfeather, hollow shaft, calamus. The fibers used in this research program are a combination of all parts of the feathers obtained from the poultry industry, which is a more practical way and economically justified, to produce composites filled by waste poultry feathers after suitable modification. Fibers of length from approximately 0.1 to 8 mm where introduced into the high density polyethylene matrix during the extrusion using two screws Leistritz extruder with ratio L/D = 44 (Leistriz MICRO 27/GL/GG-44D). Fibers where added into HDPE matrix with varying aspect ratio. Samples for mechanical testing where prepared by injection molding with use Arburg Allrounder injection molding (mold clamping force: 500 kN). In tensile testing the following properties of obtained composites where tested: tensile strength, elastic modulus, elongation. The paper analyzes also influence of addition following additives: compatibilizer and regranulated LDPE obtained from waste stretch foil, on the mechanical properties of obtained composites.