Ecofusion: sustainable composites from recycled plastics and water hyacinth fibres

Ecofusion introduces an innovative, scalable solution to two pressing environmental challenges: plastic pollution and invasive water hyacinth (WH) overgrowth. Sustainable and good performance composites was fabricated by reinforcing recycled low-density polyethylene and recycled linear low-density polyethylene (rLDPE/rLLDPE) with treated water hyacinth fibres (WHF). This project's core innovation is its pioneering dual-waste valorization approach, directly addressing ecological concerns while simultaneously creating a new class of functional composite materials; turning waste into wealth. WHF was chemically treated using 5 wt% NaOH to optimize interfacial bonding, and was further blended with rLDPE/rLLDPE at 5%, 10%, and 15% loadings. Rigorous testing revealed an increased in tensile strength peaking at 18.02 MPa with 10% WHF and a maximum Young's modulus of 352 MPa at 15% WHF, signifying enhanced stiffness. The increased in WHF loadings had also increased the impact strength, density and hardness of the composites. Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) analysis confirmed robust chemical interactions, ensuring material integrity despite WHF's inherent hydrophilicity. These cost-effective and scalable biocomposites demonstrate versatile applicability in areas such as eco-friendly packaging, lightweight automotive panels, and durable construction materials. Ecofusion represents a significant leap towards circular economy practices, offering a pragmatic and profitable pathway to mitigate plastic waste and manage aquatic biomass, delivering both ecological restoration and industrial advancement. This is a game-changer for sustainable materials.