[EN] The evaluation of the mechanical and thermal properties of poly (3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate)
(PHBV), polylactide (PLA) and their biocomposites (containing 30%wt of sisal in their composition) has been
studied and compared to poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET). The addition of sisal to the biopolymeric matrix
increased the elastic stiffness of the bio-composites achieving a performance which is comparable to PET. All
biocomposites presented lower traction resistance and elongation values respect to PET.The addition of
natural fibers improved the thermal stability of PHBV-based samples. The trigger of decomposition happened
at lower temperatures respect to PET, but always far above their melting point ensuring a good performance
of the composites at high processing temperatures. The apparent activation energies for the biocomposites in
inert conditions respect to those for PET indicates a more suitable scenario from the energetic valorisation
point of view.Moliner, C.; Badia, J.; Bosio, B.; Arato, E.; Lagazzo, A.; Capurro, M.; Ribes-Greus, A. (2017). Mechanical and thermal performance of PLA and PHBV based biopolymers as potential alternatives to PET. Chemical Engineering Transactions. 57:1417-1422. https://doi.org/10.3303/CET1757237S141714225