Bamboo powders effectively reinforcing the modulus of PBAT composites and creep resistance

Abstract Bamboo has a short growth cycle and exists in large quantities in nature. This paper uses bamboo powders (BP) to reinforce polybutylene adipate/terephthalate (PBAT) modulus and creep resistance. The BP was surface modified by γ‐(2,3‐epoxypropoxy)propyltrimethoxysilane (KH560), and compounded with PBAT in a twin‐screw extruder. The results showed that the specific surface area and micropores of BP were considerably higher than that of common wood powders and cellulose and contributes significantly to the modulus and the creep resistance of composites. Compared with pristine PBAT, the tensile modulus, flexural modulus of K‐BP/PBAT composites increased by 225%, 608%, respectively, at a filler content of 25 wt%. In addition, the creep resistance of K‐BP25 was improved by a factor of 3.25 compared to PBAT. The enhancement mechanism of K‐BP was discussed, the large specific surface area and micropores of K‐BP provided more anchoring sites, which effectively increased the interfacial binding force between K‐BP and PBAT, and enhanced the nucleation ability of PBAT, thus improving the modulus and creep resistance of the composites. The results of this paper broadened the scope of application of PBAT. Highlights The bamboo powders effectively reinforcing the modulus of PBAT. The bamboo powders effectively reinforcing the creep resistance of PBAT. The special feature of K‐BP can provide more anchoring sites for PBAT. The K‐BP improves the nucleation ability of PBAT.