Publication: Bio-based tableware incorporating rice husk into modified epoxidized palm oil matrix
| datacite.subject.fos | oecd::Engineering and technology::Materials engineering | |
| dc.contributor.author | Sunil, Anandrao Katkar | |
| dc.date.accessioned | 2025-11-26T01:08:28Z | |
| dc.date.available | 2025-11-26T01:08:28Z | |
| dc.date.issued | 2025-09-01 | |
| dc.description.abstract | The growing demand for sustainable materials has driven research into developing bio-based alternatives to conventional plastics, and in this context, bio-based tableware incorporating PEG-modified and unmodified rice husk into modified epoxidized oil offers a promising solution. The widespread use of synthetic-based tableware such as plastic plates and bowls poses significant environmental and health challenges due to their non biodegradability and potential leaching of harmful chemicals. Addressing this issue, the present study develops bio-based tableware as a sustainable alternative, emphasizing improved strength and moisture resistance through interface engineering. Rice husk (RH), an abundant agricultural by-product, was used as filler, while epoxidized palm oil (EPO) served as the bio-based polymeric matrix. Citric acid was incorporated as a crosslinker to enhance structural stability, and polyethylene glycol (PEG) was introduced to improve filler wetting, dispersion, and adhesion. The tableware was fabricated using sigma mixing and hot press molding, followed by post-drying for moisture stabilization. Comprehensive characterization was conducted, including tensile, flexural, and impact tests to evaluate load-bearing capacity, water absorption and dry-back analysis for wash durability, FTIR spectroscopy to confirm hydroxyl suppression and ester/ether linkage formation, and FESEM imaging to assess interfacial morphology. Results revealed that PEG-modified tableware exhibited superior mechanical strength, improved stiffness, and lower reversible moisture uptake compared to unmodified samples. FTIR confirmed effective crosslinking and bonding, while FESEM showed a denser, less hydrophilic interphase. The best balance of mechanical and moisture | |
| dc.identifier.uri | https://erepo.usm.my/handle/123456789/23146 | |
| dc.language.iso | en | |
| dc.title | Bio-based tableware incorporating rice husk into modified epoxidized palm oil matrix | |
| dc.type | Resource Types::text::thesis::master thesis | |
| dspace.entity.type | Publication | |
| oairecerif.author.affiliation | Universiti Sains Malaysia |