Information from the abstract
The growing electric vehicle (EV) industry necessitates sustainable material solutions to reduce reliance on petroleum-based plastics. This study investigates lignin-reinforced polylactic acid (PLA) biocomposites for sustainable EV components, focusing on rearview mirror covers. Alkaline lignin (AL) and sodium lignosulfonate (LS) were incorporated into PLA at 0–3 wt.% with polyethylene glycol (PEG400) as a compatibilizer. The objective was to develop a bio-based composite suitable for non-structural EV components, specifically a rearview mirror cover. The composites were characterized via scanning electron microscopy (SEM), universal testing machine (UTM), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and melt flow rate (MFR) testing. Results revealed that LS-PLA composites exhibited superior mechanical strength (38.6 MPa tensile strength at 1 wt.%) and thermal stability (onset degradation: 347.9 °C) compared to AL-PLA, attributed to enhanced interfacial compatibility. PEG increased MFR by 40–60% but reduced tensile strength by 15–20% due to plasticization. Optimal performance was achieved with 1 wt.% LS, demonstrating balanced processability (MFR: 12 g/10 min), thermal resilience, and economic viability (IRR: 28.5%). These biocomposites reduce petroleum dependency while meeting EV industry standards, supporting circular economy goals.
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This record has an Impact Signal of 89/100 based on recency, source, collaboration, and bibliographic signals. It prioritizes monitoring and is not a judgment of research quality.
Related topics: Lignin and Wood Chemistry · Natural Fiber Reinforced Composites · biodegradable polymer synthesis and properties
Thai researcher and institutional participation
Monpilai Narasingha · Suchata Kirdponpattara · Malinee Sriariyanun · Elizabeth Jayex Panakkal · Santi Chuetor · King Mongkut's University of Technology North Bangkok
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