Analysis and optimization of low-cost compression molding process for manufacture of particulate bone powder PLA composites

Poly Lactic Acid (PLA) is a bio-based polymer gaining attracted for the fabrication of composite materials. This research examines the mechanical characteristics of biodegradable PLA composites reinforced with animal bone particles through the compression molding technique. The reinforcement of animal bone powder was varied from 5% to 20% wt, and the variables of molding parameters of dwell time, die temperature, and pressure. The experiments are carried out using Design of Experiments (DOE). The hardness, tensile, and flexural properties have been evaluated. The finding reported that the incorporation of animal bone powder leads to an enhancement in mechanical properties. The tensile strength of PLA composite was improved by 19.26% to neat PLA samples under similar process parameters. The Hardness of the composite was improved by 24.39% when compared to neat PLA samples. The flexural strength of composites was improved by 15% to the neat PLA samples. Composites containing higher weight percentages of fillers demonstrated increased stiffness and strength, albeit with a reduction in ductility. The process parameters of compression molding were optimized using Taguchi analysis for higher tensile strength. The findings suggest that the inclusion of reinforcement plays a role in enhancing the mechanical performance of composites. In addition, SEM analysis confirmed the particle was well-dispersed, contributing properties enhancement.