Effect of Silane Concentration on the Mechanical Properties of Waste Tyre Fibre-Reinforced PLA Filaments for FDM

Abstract

This research produces waste rubber tyre fibre-reinforced polylactic acid (PLA) filament via fused deposition modelling (FDM). Demand for sustainable materials has prompted the exploration of new ways to utilize waste materials in composites, given growing environmental concerns. Due to high aspect ratio and unique composition, waste tyre fibres, derived from discarded automotive tyres, possess inherent reinforcing properties. However, the characteristics such as compatibility with PLA, a biodegradable polymer, and the overall enhancement of composite properties via chemical treatment remain unexplored. The samples were fabricated from filaments produced by a single-screw extruder and then printed via Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM) according to standard dimensions for mechanical testing. The treatment's effect on mechanical properties, including tensile and flexural strengths, was systematically evaluated. Results indicate that the chemical treatment significantly alters the interfacial interactions between waste tyre fibres and the PLA matrix, leading to a notable enhancement in the mechanical performance of the composites. The data indicate that a 3% silane treatment combined with NaOH yielded the best performance. This project highlights the potential of chemical treatments to enhance composite performance and provides valuable insights into the development of sustainable composites using waste tyre fibres and PLA. The conclusion of this project outlines a path toward environmentally and economically feasible composite materials, with implications for the utilization of waste materials in engineering appliances.