PREPARATION AND CHARACTERIZATION OF SAWDUST-REINFORCED POLYETHYLENE COMPOSITES FOR SUSTAINABLE APPLICATIONS

Abstract This research presents a comprehensive study on the development of environmentally friendly polymer composites reinforced with sawdust—a lignocellulosic waste product generated from wood processing industries. High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) and Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE) were selected as matrix materials due to their widespread application, ease of processing, and mechanical stability. Sawdust was incorporated as a reinforcing filler in varying proportions to fabricate hybrid composites using melt blending via twin-screw extrusion followed by injection molding. The resulting specimens were subjected to mechanical and physical characterization, including tensile, flexural, and hardness testing, along with water absorption analysis. Experimental outcomes revealed that the inclusion of sawdust significantly influenced the performance of the composites, demonstrating a trade-off between mechanical strength and sustainability. The findings emphasize the potential of bio- waste–reinforced polymers as viable materials for packaging, low-load structural components, and sustainable construction alternatives.