EUBCE 2026 - Mateusz BARCZEWSKI - Application of Biomass Rich in Phytochemicals as Active Fillers for Polymer Composites Processed by Rotational Molding

Application of Biomass Rich in Phytochemicals as Active Fillers for Polymer Composites Processed by Rotational Molding

Short Introductive summary

Rotational molding is one of the few methods for producing large, thin-walled polymer products from thermoplastics. A characteristic feature of the process is the ability to produce tanks, furniture, and other utility objects in a single-step operation. Due to the harsh processing conditions resulting from prolonged exposure of materials to high temperatures, it is necessary to use high amounts of synthetic stabilizers, whose migration has been reported. The market share of rotational molding wood-polymer composites has significantly increased in recent years. Replacing highly processed wood flour with antioxidant-rich biomass may provide a new solution for this technology, enabling WPC aesthetics and the potential to eliminate the use of synthetic stabilizers. The study compares the stabilizing effectiveness of various fillers —nut shells (pecan, pistachio, walnut) and tea and coffee waste. Particular attention was paid to how the filler pretreatment procedures and the multi-stage process of incorporating the filler into the polymer matrix led to varying degrees of biomass degradation, thereby increasing or decreasing its application potential.

M. Barczewski, Poznan University of Technology, POLAND
J. Anisko-Michalak, Poznan University of Technology, POLAND
A. Hejna, Poznan University of Technology, POLAND
P. Kosmela, Gdansk University of Technology, POLAND
Z. Ortega, Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, SPAIN
J, Szulc, Bydgoszcz University of Science and Technology, POLAND
M. Zborowska, Poznan University of Life Sciences, POLAND
B. Waliszewska, Poznan University of Life Sciences, POLAND
L. Szwajkowska-Michalek, Poznan University of Life Sciences, POLAND
A. Przybylska-Balcerek, Poznan University of Life Sciences, POLAND
K. Stuper-Szablewska, Poznan University of Life Sciences, POLAND