Preparation of Biocomposite Sheet Incorporation of Buffing Dust and Sugarcane Fiber: It’s Application for Footwear as a Reinforcing Material

Abstract

This study aims to prepare flexible composite sheets from buffing dust waste and post-extracted sugarcane fiber waste through a simple solution casting technique. Natural rubber latex (NRL) was used as a binder material in different mixing ratios. To verify the chemical bonding between buffing dust and sugarcane fiber, FTIR was performed. Whole sole flexing endurance test, Bally Flexometer Test, Ross Flex Tester Test were performed to check the stability of composite. The physical and mechanical properties such as tensile strength, elongation, hardness, water absorption and density of prepared composites with optimum NRL content were augmented by 19, 21, 10, 15 and 21%, respectively, to compare with pure buffing dust sheets. As a consequence, these simple, low-cost, and flexible composite sheets might be a potential material for packaging, interior design, as well as reinforcing element for footwear.