Title
Influence of sawdust, sugarcane bagasse and their synergy on the morphological, thermal and mechanical properties of the PHBH matrix
Authors
SYLVIA T. SIKHOSANA, NTSOAKI J. MALEBO, TLADI G. MOFOKENG, MPHO P. MOTLOUNG and MOKGAOTSA J. MOCHANE

Received August 8, 2025
Published Volume 60 Issue 5-6 May-June
Keywords sugarcane bagasse, sawdust, PHBH, hybrid composite, agricultural waste

Abstract
The accumulation of agricultural waste is a serious concern worldwide. The primary goal of this paper is to examine the microstructure, thermal, mechanical and rheological properties of sugarcane bagasse and sawdust reinforced hybrid composites. Poly(3-hydoxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyhexanoate) was employed as a polymer matrix phase, and the composites were prepared by melt extrusion at 178.8 rpm using a twin-screw extruder. The morphological features show poor interfacial adhesion between the polymer matrix and sugarcane bagasse, but sawdust shows better dispersion in the matrix. The hybrid composite comprising halloysite clay showed higher thermal stability and viscosity than all other composites. All composites showed better stiffness than the neat matrix, irrespectively of the type of reinforcing filler. The results showed that the combination of sugarcane bagasse, sawdust and halloysite clay is useful for improving the thermal stability and stiffness of the polymer matrix. This enhancement is particularly advantageous for advanced applications, such as smart packaging solutions and electronics, where the interplay of thermal properties and rigidity is important.