Title
Influence of different fillers on the behaviour of LDPE-based composites to accelerated weathering
Authors
IULIANA SPIRIDON and RALUCA NICOLETA DARIE-NITA

Received To the memory of Acad. Cristofor I. Simionescu, for the significant impact of his work in the field of cellulose chemistry in Romania and beyond
Published Volume 51 Issue 9-10 September-December
Keywords composites, eucalyptus wood, lignin, accelerated weathering

Abstract
Some polyethylene/wood and polyethylene/lignin formulations were prepared via melt blending and characterized. Their mechanical properties, thermal behaviour and surface modifications were evaluated before and after accelerated weathering. Also, the effect of incorporated fillers on the morphological properties was assessed by optical microscopy. An improved compatibility with the polyethylene matrix was recorded for the composite containing lignin and maleated polyethylene due to partial esterification of lignin. The obtained results revealed a slight effect of photostabilization of lignin during accelerated weathering.