This preliminary study reinforces a PLA/PBS blend with agricultural-waste cornstalk fibers and uses polyethylene glycol plus triacetin as dual plasticizers. It compares fiber fractions at or below versus above 75 micrometers and plasticizer contents of 5, 7.5, and 10 wt%.
Key findings
- The two fiber-size ranges showed no reported significant thermal-behavior difference. Dual plasticization increased melt-flow index and processability but reduced overall mechanical properties. SEM suggested adequate dispersion and adhesion, FTIR did not indicate new chemical bonding, and thermal conductivity was reported as comparable to conventional gypsum board.
Why this matters globally
The concept could add value to cornstalk residues and reduce virgin-material demand in building products, linking circular-economy goals with bio-based polymer insulation. Lifecycle and building-standard performance remain to be established.
Thai researcher contribution
The Chiang Mai University team designed the formulations, conducted multi-method characterization, and assessed agricultural-residue insulation potential, directly addressing sustainable-material challenges relevant to Thailand.
Limitations to consider
The work is explicitly preliminary. Long-term durability, moisture uptake, fungal growth, fire and smoke behavior, aging, emissions, scale-up, and cost are not established. Similar thermal conductivity to gypsum does not imply equivalent overall building performance.