Courage Alorbu

Dr. Courage Alorbu


Research Focus & Metrics

Academic Career Length

3Years (2024-Present)

(Calculated once Scilit publication data is synced: current year − year of first publication + 1)

Representative Publications

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9 January 2026 in Materials
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
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NENnaemeka Ewurum
Nnaemeka Ewurum
CACourage Alorbu
Courage Alorbu
Lili CaiLili Cai
Lili Cai
AMArmando Gabriel McDonald
Armando Gabriel McDonald
This study examines the effects of kraft lignin, milled hemp stalks, and dicumyl peroxide (DCP) crosslinking on polybutylene succinate (PBS) composites, focusing on rheological, mechanical, and thermal properties as well as accelerated weathering and fungal performance. Two composite series were produced via twin-screw extrusion, (a) simple blends (B-series) and (b) DCP-crosslinked formulations (R-series), with emphasis on hybrid lignin–hemp composites (B-PLH and R-PLH). Rheological analysis showed that hemp fiber increased viscosity, while lignin reduced it, and DCP further enhanced shear-thinning behavior. Mechanical testing confirmed that R-PLH exhibited a 16% increase in flexural strength (42.6 MPa) and a 2.4-fold increase in flexural modulus (1785 MPa) over neat PBS, but tensile strength declined by 19%. Thermal analysis revealed a 14–26% reduction in mass loss rate and increased char formation (up to 16.3% in R-PLH), indicating improved thermal stability. Water absorption showed that hemp fibers increased hydrophilicity, further increased by DCP. Accelerated weathering led to significant color change and surface degradation, particularly in R-PLH. Despite lignocellulosic content, all composites exhibited ≤2% fungal degradation, indicating limited mass loss due to fungal exposure under conditions used in this study. Overall, B-PLH and R-PLH offer a balance of stiffness and thermal stability, though trade-offs in tensile strength and weathering resistance should be considered for sustainable applications.

2 October 2024 in Scientific African
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
FOFrancis Wilson Owusu
Francis Wilson Owusu
MAMary Mamle Apetorgbor
Mary Mamle Apetorgbor
JKJames Kofi Korang
James Kofi Korang
CACourage Alorbu
Courage Alorbu
EAEmmanuel Appiah-Kubi
Emmanuel Appiah-Kubi
FAFrancis Asare
Francis Asare