Effect of Various Natural Filler Additives on Biodegradability of Low-Density Polyethylene-Based Composites ^†

The problem of polymer waste (plastic waste) is one of the most acute environmental problems of our time. It is associated with the huge amount of plastic produced and its slow decomposition in the environment.

Long-term studies aimed at the biological decomposition of polyethylene, however, have yielded modest results. In general, the fight against pollution by polymer waste requires a comprehensive approach, including changes in consumer behavior, innovations in materials and technologies, and effective waste management.

In this paper, as a solution to this problem, we propose modifying low-density polyethylene by adding a natural filler—natural rubber.

In this regard, the objects of development and further research were polymer composites based on polyolefins of various classes with the addition of a natural polymer—natural rubber.

Natural rubber (NR) is a biopolymer synthesized by more than 2000 plant species, most of which belong to Euphorbiaceae or Compositaceae. Natural rubber refers to the coagulated or precipitated product obtained from the milky sap (latex) of the rubber plant (Hevea brasiliensis), which forms unlinked but partially vulcanized polymer chains with a molecular weight of about 106 amu and elastic properties.

The main elements of scientific novelty of the declared work: for the first time, a comprehensive study of the properties of mixtures and individual components of polymer compositions based on polyolefins and natural rubber was carried out, physicochemical methods of modification were considered, and previously unstudied dependencies of interphase interaction in multicomponent polymer matrix systems were established. Based on the results of the work, the optimal ratio of components in the polymer mixture was obtained, the features of the destruction process were determined, and the prospects for further use of the obtained materials were assessed.