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Processability Characteristics of Biocomposite from Recycled High-Density Polyethylene and Brewers’ Spent Grain

Abstract:

The current awareness of the environmental impact of the massive consumption of fossil fuel-based resources has prompted the development of biocomposites based on plastic and agro-industrial waste instead of virgin raw materials, promoting the new circular economy trend. This study uses a torque rheometer to analyze the effect of brewers’ spent grain (BSG) on processing a postconsumer high-density polyethylene (rHDPE)-based biocomposite. Processing parameters are measured to contrast the effect of BSG (20 and 40 wt%) and the addition of a coupling agent at low (10 rpm) and high speed (90 rpm). This work allows determining the viability of manufacturing recycled plastic biocomposite with agro-industrial waste at an industrial scale.