Effects of Silane-Modified Potato Waste Content on Potato Waste/PBAT Biocomposites

Plastic pollution poses a significant threat to the environment and human health, prompting the search for sustainable alternatives. Poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT), as a biodegradable material, offers a solution to replace polyolefin plastic. In this study, the effects of silane-modified potato waste (M-PW) content on the interfacial and physical properties of PBAT composites were investigated. Results indicate that increasing M-PW content deepens the color of the composites. FTIR analysis confirms successful grafting of the silane coupling agent γ-aminopropyl triethoxysilane (KH550) onto potato waste, with the composites forming a physical mixture of the two phases. M-PW exerts complex effects on mechanical properties: tensile strength first decreases and then increases, while impact strength declines continuously. Incorporating M-PW reduces the thermal stability of PBAT but enhances the composites' crystallization and melting properties, as well as their hydrophobicity. XRD analysis reveals that M-PW lowers the composites' crystallinity without altering the crystal structure of PBAT. SEM images demonstrate poor adhesion between high-load M-PW and the PBAT matrix. This study highlights the potential of agricultural waste in biodegradable plastics, but further research is required to improve M-PW dispersion and compatibility within the PBAT matrix, thereby enhancing mechanical performance.