Laura Sisti

In the field of composites and nanocomposites the research is focused on the preparation of polymeric materials with organo modified hydrotalcites, montmorillonites or graphene. The dispersion of the inorganic fillers in the polymer matrix is obtained by direct synthesis or by mixing in the molten state with a Brabender mixer or a  co-rotating twin-screw extruder. The materials prepared are characterized by differential scanning calorimetry, thermogravimetric analysis, mechanical analysis, transmission electron microscopy and X-ray.

Within the framework of composite materials the research is focused on the preparation of materials based on biopolymers and lignocellulosic fibers such as coconut fiber, sugarcane bagasse, sisal, curauá, hemp or fibers deriving from agro-wastes. Features such as the adhesion at the interface, impact resistance and elastic modulus, are optimized without chemically alter the fibers but developing treatments completely "bio", such as enzymatic treatments and plasma treatments. The materials prepared are characterized from the mechanical, thermal and morphological point of view.