MODIFIED OAT HULLS IN POLYMERS

BACKGROUND

[001] Unused fibers from plants are typically burned for energy, composted, used for filler, or discarded. Such fibers may include husks, shells, stems, or other non-fruit or non-seed plant materials. Some plant fibers can be used to produce fuels (e.g. , ethanol or syngas).

[002] Fiber from wood and other renewable sources can be used in fiber-reinforced composites (sometimes called natural fiber reinforced composites), such as for extruded building products (e.g. , decking) and automotive applications. Untreated fibers are susceptible to rot and spoilage due to moisture, fungal growth, etc. Such rot or spoilage can lead to premature failure of composites. Rot and failure can occur during use or storage.

SUMMARY

[003] Techniques are generally described that include methods, compositions, and articles including functionalizing polymer-coated oat hulls dispersed in thermoplastic polymers. An example method of forming a composite includes providing a plurality of oat hulls, each of the plurality of oat hulls including an outer surface. The method includes coating the outer surface of at least some of the plurality of oat hulls with a functionalizing polymer to form a plurality of functionalized oat hulls. The method includes dispersing the plurality of functionalized oat hulls in a thermoplastic polymer composed to chemically bond with the functionalizing polymer.

[004] An example composite is described. The composite includes a thermoplastic matrix comprising a thermoplastic polymer. The example includes a plurality of coated oat hulls dispersed in the thermoplastic matrix. At least some of the plurality of coated oat hulls of the example composite comprises an oat hull having an outer surface and a functionalizing polymer bonded to and substantially completely enclosing the outer surface, where the functionalizing polymer chemically bonds to the oat hull and the thermoplastic polymer, and the functionalizing polymer is chemically different than the thermoplastic polymer.

[005] An example packaging is described. The packaging includes a film. The film of the example packaging includes a thermoplastic matrix comprising a thermoplastic polymer and a plurality of coated oat hulls dispersed in the thermoplastic matrix. At least some of the plurality of coated oat hulls of the example packaging includes an oat hull having an outer surface, and a functionalizing polymer bonded to and substantially completely enclosing the outer surface, where the functionalizing polymer chemically bonds to the oat hull and the thermoplastic polymer, and the functionalizing polymer is chemically different than the thermoplastic polymer.

[006] An example erosion blanket is disclosed. The erosion blanket includes a body including a plurality of fibers at least some of which include a thermoplastic matrix comprising a thermoplastic polymer, the body having a thickness of at least 1 cm and one or more lateral dimensions of at least about 300 cm. The erosion blanket includes a plurality of coated oat hulls dispersed in the thermoplastic matrix. At least some of the plurality of coated oat hulls in the example erosion blanket include an oat hull having an outer surface, and a functionalizing polymer bonded to and substantially completely enclosing the outer surface, where the functionalizing polymer chemically bonds to the oat hull and the thermoplastic polymer, and the functionalizing polymer is chemically different than the thermoplastic polymer.

[007] Features from any of the disclosed embodiments may be used in combination with one another, without limitation. In addition, other features and advantages of the present disclosure will become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art through consideration of the following detailed description and the accompanying drawings.

[008] The foregoing summary is illustrative only and is not intended to be in any way limiting. In addition to the illustrative aspects, embodiments, and features described above, further aspects, embodiments, and features will become apparent by reference to the drawings and the following detailed description. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[009] The foregoing and other features of the present disclosure will become more fully apparent from the following description and appended claims, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Understanding that these drawings depict only several examples in accordance with the disclosure and are, therefore, not to be considered limiting of its scope, the disclosure will be described with additional specificity and detail through use of the accompanying drawings, in which: Fig. 1 is a flowchart illustrating a method of forming a composite, according to at least one example;

Fig. 2A is a schematic illustration of a composite material, according to at least one example;

Fig. 2B is a schematic illustration of a composite material, according to at least one example; and

Figs. 3A-3D are schematic illustrations of articles having any of the composite materials disclosed herein, according to various examples,

all arranged in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[010] In the following detailed description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof. In the drawings, similar symbols typically identify similar components, unless context dictates otherwise. The illustrative examples described in the detailed description, drawings, and claims are not meant to be limiting. Other examples may be utilized, and other changes may be made, without departing from the spirit or scope of the subject matter presented herein. It will be readily understood that the aspects of the present disclosure, as generally described herein, and illustrated in the Figures, can be arranged, substituted, combined, separated, and designed in a wide variety of different configurations, all of which are implicitly contemplated herein.

[011] This disclosure is drawn, inter alia, to methods, systems, products, devices, and/or apparatus generally related to compositions having a plurality of oat hulls dispersed in a thermoplastic polymer and bound to the thermoplastic polymer via a functionalizing polymer or agent therebetween.

[012] Fig. 1 is a method 100 of forming a composite, according to at least one example. An example method may include one or more operations, functions or actions as illustrated by one or more of blocks 110, 120, and/or 130.

[013] An example process 100 may begin with block 110, which recites "providing a plurality of oat hulls, each of the plurality of oat hulls including an outer surface." Block 110 may be followed by block 120, which recites "coating the outer surface of at least some of the oat hulls with a functionalizing polymer to form a plurality of functionalized oat hulls." Block 120 may be followed by block 130, which recites "dispersing the plurality of functionalized oat hulls in a thermoplastic polymer composed to chemically bond with the functionalizing polymer."

[014] The blocks included in the described example methods are for illustration purposes. In some embodiments, the blocks may be performed in a different order. In some other embodiments, various blocks may be eliminated. In still other embodiments, various blocks may be divided into additional blocks, supplemented with other blocks, or combined together into fewer blocks. Other variations of these specific blocks are contemplated, including changes in the order of the blocks, changes in the content of the blocks being split or combined into other blocks, etc. In some examples, block 110 providing a plurality of oat hulls, each of the plurality of oat hulls including an outer surface may include sizing the plurality of oat hulls, or block 120 coating the outer surface of at least some of the oat hulls with a functionalizing polymer to form a plurality of functionalized oat hulls can be performed prior to sizing the plurality of oat hulls.

[015] Block 110 recites, "providing a plurality of oat hulls, each of the plurality of oat hulls including an outer surface." In some examples, providing a plurality of oat hulls includes providing a plurality of at least partially dehydrated or dried oat hulls. In some examples, providing a plurality of oat hulls includes providing a plurality of randomly sized (e.g. , unprocessed or unsized) oat hulls. In some examples, providing a plurality of oat hulls includes providing a plurality of oat hulls having a selected average particle size. For example, the selected average particle size can include various particle size distributions such as a single average particle size (e.g. , single modal distribution), a combination of two different average particle sizes (e.g. , bimodal distribution), a trimodal distribution of particle sizes, or any other multi-modal distribution. The average particle size of the oat hulls (e.g. , particles thereof) may be based upon a measurement of a major axis (e.g. , the largest dimension) of individual pulp particles or a diameter of the pulp particles (when substantially round).

[016] The average particle size of a single mode of oat hulls can be less than about 100 μιη, such as in a range of about 1 μιη to about 100 μιη, about 5 μιη to about 50 μιη, about 10 μιη to about 40 μιη, about 1 μιη to about 20 μιη, about 1 μιη to about 10 μιη, about 2 μιη to about 10 μιη, about 5 μιη to about 15 μιη, about 10 μιη to about 20 μιη, about 20 μιη to about 30 μιη, about 30 μιη to about 40 μιη, about 40 μιη to about 50 μιη, about 1 μιη to about 50 μιη, about 5 μιη to about 45 μιη, less than about 50 μιη, less than about 40 μιη, less than about 30 μιη, less than about 20 μιη, less than about 10 μιη, less than about 5 μιη, or about 5 μιη. Any combinations of the above-noted average particle sizes and ranges thereof may be used as separate modes of a bimodal or greater distribution of average particle sizes of oat hulls. In some examples, the individual particle size of each of the plurality of oat hulls in a single mode may be substantially the same, that is to say, deviating only 10% or less from the average particle size of the single mode.

[017] In some examples, providing a plurality of oat hulls may include sizing the plurality of oat hulls to the selected average particle size, such as via one or more of grinding (e.g. , wet grinding), chopping, shredding, sieving, pulverizing, or chemically treating (e.g. , at least partially dissolving) the plurality of oat hulls. In such examples, providing a plurality of oat hulls may include providing the plurality of oat hulls that have been ground or otherwise sized to the selected average particle size(s). The selected average particle size may be selected based upon the use of the polymer composition and desired properties thereof. For example, larger oat hull particles may be selected when a specific strength is desired.

[018] In some examples, providing a plurality of oat hulls may include shelling and separating oats from the oat hulls. In some examples, providing a plurality of oat hulls can include providing a plurality of oat hull substitutes, such as one or more biomass fibers or particles (e.g. , ground nut shells, husks, etc.). For example, rather than oat hulls, walnut shells, rice husks, peanut shells, cellulose, nanocellulose, crystalline nanocellulose, bacterial cellulose, microfibrillated cellulose, microcrystalline cellulose, or any other suitable biomass substitute for oat hulls may be used in addition to or alternatively to oat hulls.

[019] Block 120 recites, "coating the outer surface of at least some of the oat hulls with a functionalizing polymer to form a plurality of functionalized oat hulls." In some examples, coating the outer surface of at least some of the plurality of oat hulls with a functionalizing polymer can include spraying, dispersing the plurality of oat hulls in, or admixing the oat hulls into, the functionalizing polymer. For example, coating the outer surface of at least some of the plurality of oat hulls with the functionalizing polymer can include spraying the functionalizing polymer onto the outer surface of the at least some of the plurality of oat hulls. Coating the outer surface of at least some of the plurality of oat hulls with a functionalizing polymer can include at least partially coating or completely coating the outer surface of at a majority (e.g. , each) of the plurality of oat hulls with the functionalizing polymer. Coating the outer surface of at least some of the plurality of oat hulls with a functionalizing polymer can include bonding the functionalizing polymer to the outer surface of, or at least partially infusing the functionalizing polymer into, the oat hulls. In some examples, coating the outer surface of at least some of the plurality of oat hulls with a functionalizing polymer can be carried out outside of the presence of thermoplastic polymers.

[020] The functionalizing polymer can bond (e.g. , physically or chemically) to the oat hulls to form functionalized oat hulls. For example, the functionalizing polymer can include a chemical species configured to covalently bond to the surface of the oat hulls. In some examples, coating the outer surface of at least some of the plurality of oat hulls with the functionalizing polymer may include coating the outer surface of the at least some of the plurality of oat hulls with an amphiphilic polymer having amphiphilic mer units (e.g. , mono-, co-, ter-, etc.), where a hydrophilic side of the amphiphilic mer units is bonded to the outer surface. In some examples, the functionalizing polymer can include one or more monomer units, such as in a copolymer, or terpolymer. The functionalizing polymer can include a cross-linker or cross-linkers composed to link the biomass (e.g. , cellulosic, hemi-cellulosic, lignin, or other plant materials) in the plurality of oat hulls with a thermoplastic polymer. In some examples, the functionalizing polymer can include one or more of an anhydride (e.g. , maleic anhydride); a monocarboxylic acid (e.g. , butyric acid, caprylic acid, stearic acid, or oleic acid); a dicarboxylic acid (e.g. , succinic acid); tricarboxylic acids or greater (e.g. , citric acid); a maleic anhydride/olefin copolymer (e.g. , maleic anhydride polypropylene copolymer); an ethylene/acrylic acid copolymer; cellulose or derivatives thereof (e.g. , hydroxyl ethyl cellulose); derivatives (e.g. , salts, ions, or bound forms) of any of the foregoing, or combinations of any of the foregoing. In some examples, the functionalizing polymer can include a homopolymer, a copolymer, a terpolymer, or greater amount of mer species including one or more of any of the foregoing monomers or copolymers.

[021] In some examples, the functionalizing polymer can include a chain or group thereon having a size and shape suitable to physically entangle in the structure of the surface of an oat hull (e.g. , physical adsorption or absorption).

[022] In some examples, coating the outer surface of at least some of the plurality of oat hulls with a functionalizing polymer can include controlling the relative amounts of mono-carboxylic acids and multi-carboxylic acids in the functionalizing polymer. Controlling the relative amounts of mono-carboxylic acids and multi-carboxylic acids in the functionalizing polymer can allow for selective customization of the functionalized oat hulls. For example, a larger proportion of monocarboxylic acids (or derivatives thereof) bonded to the surface of the oat hulls than polycarboxylic acids can provide a relatively greater amount of hydrophobicity at the surface of the oat hulls than if more polycarboxylic acids were bonded to the oat hulls. The polycarboxylic acids bonded to the surface of the oat hulls can serve to bond further monomers and/or polymers (e.g. , of the thermoplastics disclosed below) to the oat hulls by providing a compatible linkage therebetween. The polycarboxylic acids, such as succinic acid or citric acid, may act as a bridging agent to bond with thermoplastics, while monocarboxylic acids, such as butyric acid or caprylic acid, may act to bond (e.g. , at the hydrophilic carboxyl group) to the free hydroxides at the oat hull surface and provide a non-polar (e.g. , hydrophobic) tail extending therefrom to render the surface more hydrophobic (the hydrophobic tails may also bond to the hydrophobic thermoplastics in some cases). Accordingly, coating the oat hulls with a functionalizing polymer having a selected proportion of monocarboxylic to polycarboxylic acids can selectively control thermoplastic coverage or hydrophobicity at the surface of the oat hulls. As used herein, "functionalizing polymer" can include non- polymeric materials, such as a single unit of any of the functionalizing polymers or derivatives thereof disclosed herein. For example, a functionalizing polymer can include a single butyric acid derivative or citric acid derivative bound to an oat hull.

[023] A first component of the functionalizing polymer can make up at least about 5 wt% of the functionalizing polymer, such as in a range of about 5 wt% to about 95 wt%, about 10 wt% to about 80 wt%, about 20 wt% to about 70 wt%, about 30 wt% to about 60 wt%, about 5 wt% to about 33 wt%, about 33 wt% to about 66 wt%, about 66 wt% to about 95 wt%, about 5 wt% to about 15 wt%, about 10 wt% to about 20 wt%, about 15 wt% to about 25 wt%, about 20 wt% to about 40 wt%, about 30 wt% to about 50 wt%, about 40 wt% to about 60 wt%, about 50 wt% to about 70 wt%, about 60 wt% to about 80 wt%, about 70 wt% to about 90 wt%, less than about 50 wt%, less than about 40 wt%, less than about 30 wt%, less than about 20 wt%, or less than about 10 wt%. In some examples, a second component of the functionalizing polymer can make up the balance of any of the first component amounts of the functionalizing polymer. In some examples, a second and third component of the functionalizing polymer can make up the balance of any of the first component amounts of the functionalizing polymer.

[024] In some examples, the functionalizing polymer can be delivered in a solvent, dispersant, or other liquid. The functionalizing polymer may comprise at least about 2 wt% of a solution, dispersion, emulsion, or other liquid containing the functionalizing polymer, such as in a range of about 2 wt% to about 95 wt%, about 10 wt% to about 80 wt%, about 20 wt% to about 70 wt%, about 30 wt% to about 60 wt%, about 50 wt% to about 35 wt%, about 35 wt% to about 65 wt%, about 65 wt% to about 95 wt%, about 2 wt% to about 5 wt%, about 2 wt% to about 10 wt%, about 5 wt% to about 15 wt%, about 10 wt% to about 20 wt%, about 15 wt% to about 25 wt%, about 20 wt% to about 40 wt%, about 30 wt% to about 50 wt%, about 40 wt% to about 60 wt%, about 50 wt% to about 70 wt%, about 60 wt% to about 80 wt%, about 70 wt% to about 90 wt%, less than about 50 wt%, less than about 40 wt%, less than about 30 wt%, less than about 20 wt%, or less than about 10 wt% of the solution, dispersion, emulsion, or other liquid. For example, any of the functionalizing polymers disclosed herein can be dispersed or emulsified in a liquid medium, such as water or an organic liquid or solvent.

[025] Some specific sets of materials in the functionalizing polymer can include succinic acid and butyric acid, citric acid and butyric acid, maleic anhydride and an olefin; and acrylic acid and ethylene. While the functionalizing polymer is described as a polymer, it is also understood that the functionalizing polymer can include single molecules or a compound of two or more molecules bonded to the oat hull. For example, the functionalizing polymer can include a plurality of individual monocarboxylic acid and/or polycarboxylic acid molecules individually bound to the surface of the oat hulls but not necessarily bound to each other, such that at least a portion of the oat hull surface is coated by the plurality of individual monocarboxylic acid and/or polycarboxylic acid molecules. In an example, coating the outer surface of at least some of the plurality of oat hulls with the functionalizing polymer comprises coating the outer surface of at least some of the plurality of oat hulls with a functionalizing polyolefin, a polyolefin-grafted maleic anhydride polymer, or an ethylene acrylic acid copolymer.

[026] In some examples, coating the outer surface of at least some of the plurality of oat hulls with a functionalizing polymer can include adding a catalyst to the functionalizing polymer prior to, during, or after coating the outer surface. For example, sodium hypophosphite can be added to a functionalizing polymer composition having butyric acid, caprylic acid, etc., therein. Suitable catalysts for the functionalizing polymers herein can include sulfonic acids (e.g. , p-toluene sulfonic acid), hypophosphite salts, or any other catalyst suitable to catalyze polymerization of the functionalizing polymer.

[027] In some examples, coating the outer surface of at least some of the plurality of oat hulls with a functionalizing polymer can include applying an amount of functionalizing polymer to the plurality of oat hulls effective to cause the functionalizing polymer to exhibit a selected average thickness on the plurality of oat hulls. The selected average thickness can be at least about 50 nm, such as in a range of about 50 nm to about 10 μιη, about 100 nm to about 8 μηι, about 500 μηι to about 6 μηι, about 1 μηι to about 3 μηι, less than about 10 μηι, less than about 5 μηι, less than about 2 μηι, or less than about 1 μηι. The thickness of the functionalizing polymer-coating on the oat hulls can correspond to the amount of time the oat hulls are sprayed, dispersed, or suspending in the functionalizing polymer, the amount of time the oat hulls having the functionalizing polymer thereon are cured, the temperature(s) at which bonding the functionalizing polymer or curing takes place, etc. After the oat hulls are at least partially coated with the functionalizing polymer, the plurality of functionalized oat hulls can exhibit any average particle sizes disclosed above for the unfunctionalized oat hulls, or the average particle sizes disclosed above for the unfunctionalized oat hulls plus the above-noted average thicknesses.

[028] In some examples, coating the outer surface of at least some of the plurality of oat hulls with the functionalizing polymer includes coating the plurality of oat hulls with an amount of the functionalizing polymer that is at least about 1 wt% of the oat hulls (e.g. , unfunctionalized or functionalized oat hulls), such as in a range of about 1 wt% to about 50 wt%, about 2 wt% to about 30 wt% about 5 wt% to about 20 wt%, about 1 wt% to about 10 wt%, about 5 wt% to about 15 wt%, about 1 wt% to about 5 wt%, about 2 wt% to about 5 wt%, about 3 wt% to about 8 wt%, about 2 wt% to about 10 wt%, about 5 wt% to about 10 wt%, less than about 30 wt%, less than about 20 wt%, less than about 10 wt%, less than about 5 wt%, or less than about 2 wt% of the oat hulls.

[029] In some examples, the method 100 can further include at least partially curing the functionalizing polymer on the plurality of oat hulls. At least partially curing the functionalizing polymer on the plurality of oat hulls can include one or more of drying, dehydrating, or heating the functionalizing polymer on the oat hulls. In some examples, the method 100 can include applying heat to the functionalizing polymer (and oat hulls) to bond to lignocellulosic material in the oat hulls, such as after drying or dehydrating the functionalizing polymer. At least partially curing the functionalizing polymer on the plurality of oat hulls can include heating the functionalizing polymer in the mixing vessel (e.g. , vessel in which the functionalizing polymer is coated on the oat hulls) or in a separate vessel. At least partially curing the functionalizing polymer on the plurality of oat hulls can include heating the functionalizing polymer prior to mixing with the thermoplastic polymer, during mixing with the thermoplastic polymer, or after mixing with the thermoplastic polymer (such as in the mixing vessel). In some examples, at least partially curing the functionalizing polymer on the plurality of oat hulls can include one or more of passing air over the plurality of functionalized oat hulls or exposing the plurality of functionalized oat hulls to an elevated temperature of greater than 15 °C, such as in a range of about 15 °C to about 200 °C, about 50 °C to about 150 °C, about 100 °C to about 200 °C, about 150 °C to about 200 °C, about 25 °C to about 200 °C, about 15 °C to about 180 °C, about 15 °C to about 150 °C, about 70°C to about 125 °C, about 180 °C to about 200 °C, about 180 °C to about 190 °C, about 150 °C to about 170 °C, less than about 200 °C, less than about 150 °C, less than about 100 °C, less than 50 °C. Curing can be carried out for about 1 minute or more, such as in a range of about 1 min. to about 1 hour, about 1 min. to about 10 min., about 5 min. to about 20 min., about 5 min. to about 10 min., about 1 min. to about 30 min., about 2 min. to about 15 min., less than about 1 hour, less than about 30 min., less than about 20 min., less than about 10 min., or less than about 5 min.

[030] Block 130 recites, "dispersing the plurality of functionalized oat hulls in a thermoplastic polymer composed to chemically bond with the functionalizing polymer." In some examples, dispersing the plurality of functionalized oat hulls in a thermoplastic polymer can include mixing any plurality of functionalized oat hulls disclosed herein into a volume of the thermoplastic polymer. The thermoplastic polymer can be composed to bond with the functionalizing polymer, such as at a hydrophobic portion thereof. In some examples, dispersing the plurality of functionalized oat hulls in a thermoplastic polymer can include dispersing the plurality of oat hulls in a thermoplastic polymer or liquid (e.g. , solution, dispersion, suspension, emulsion, etc.) containing the same.

[031] In some examples, dispersing the plurality of functionalized oat hulls in the thermoplastic polymer may include dispersing the plurality of functionalized oat hulls into a container holding the thermoplastic polymer. In some examples, dispersing the plurality of functionalized oat hulls in the thermoplastic polymer may include dispersing the plurality of functionalized oat hulls into a layer (e.g. , sheet) of the thermoplastic polymer. For example, dispersing the plurality of functionalized oat hulls into a layer of the thermoplastic polymer can include adding (e.g. , mixing, pouring, etc.) the functionalized oat hulls into thermoplastic polymer that has been formed into a sheet, either after, during, or prior to formation of the sheet. In some examples, dispersing the plurality of functionalized oat hulls in the thermoplastic polymer may include forming a layer of (or applying the plurality of functionalized oat hulls to form a layer) and applying the thermoplastic polymer into the layer of functionalized oat hulls. Such layers can be made in a batch-wise process or can be produced by a continuous feed process. In some examples, dispersing the plurality of functionalized oat hulls in a thermoplastic polymer composed to chemically bond with the functionalizing polymer may include one or more of admixing, stirring, extruding, co-extruding, molding, etc., the functionalized oat hulls in a thermoplastic polymer.

[032] In some examples, dispersing the plurality of functionalized oat hulls in the thermoplastic polymer may include dispersing the plurality of functionalized oat hulls into one or more of polypropylene, polycarbonate, polyethylene (e.g. , bio-polyethylene), high-density polyethylene ("HDPE"), low-density polyethylene ("LDPE"), polystyrene, polyvinyl chloride ("PVC"), polyvinylidenechloride, polylactic acid ("PLA"), a polyhydroxy acid(s) ("PHA"), polyhydroxybutyrate ("PHB"), adipic acid, polyacrylic acid, ethylene vinyl alcohol, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, polyamide, polyethylene terephthalate, polyurethane, polyetherimide, polyether ether ketone, polysulfone, polyoxymethylene, polyvinylidene fluoride, hydroxyethyl cellulose, cellulose, derivatives of any of the foregoing, polymers of any of the foregoing, or combinations of any of the foregoing. Further polymers, beyond those listed above, may be used for the thermoplastic polymer. In some examples, the thermoplastic may be a homopolymer, copolymer, terpolymer, etc., having any of the polymers disclosed herein. In some examples, the thermoplastic polymer can be sourced from a renewable source, such as polyethylene, PLA, PHA, PHB, cellulose, hydroxyethylcellulose produced from biomass. In some examples, the thermoplastic polymer can be sourced from non-renewable sources, such as petroleum.

[033] In some examples, dispersing the plurality of functionalized oat hulls in the thermoplastic polymer may include forming a layer of the thermoplastic polymer on at least some (e.g. , at least a majority or each) of functionalized oat hulls. The layer of thermoplastic polymer on the functionalized oat hulls may have an average thickness of at least about 1 μιη, such as in a range of about 1 μιη to about 2 mm, about 10 μιη to about 1 mm, about 20 μιη to about 500 μιη, about 50 μιη to about 250 μιη, less than about 1 mm, or less than about 500 μιη.

[034] In some examples, dispersing the plurality of functionalized oat hulls in the thermoplastic polymer may include forming a layer of the composition (e.g. , thermoplastic polymer having the functionalized oat hulls therein). Forming a layer of the composition can include extruding the composition, such as to form a film. Extruding the composition may include extruding the composition to form a film or layer having a selected thickness. The layer of the thermoplastic polymer having the functionalized oat hulls therein may exhibit a thickness of at least about 50 μιη, such as in a range of about 50 μιη to about 10 cm, about 100 μιη to about 5 cm, about 250 μιη to about 3 cm, about 500 μιη to about 1 cm, about 1 cm to about 10 cm, about 100 μιη to about 1 cm, about 50 μιη to about 1 cm, about 50 μιη to about 5 mm, about 100 μιη to about 3 mm, about 250 μιη to about 2 mm, about 500 μιη to about 5 mm, about 1 mm to about 1 cm, about 1 mm to about 5 mm, about 50 μιη to about 1 mm, about 100 μιη to about 500 μιη, about 200 μιη to about 700 μιη, about 500 μιη to about 1 mm, less than about 10 cm, less than about 5 cm, less than about 1 cm, less than about 5 mm, less than about 3 mm, less than about 1 mm, or less than about 500 μιη.

[035] In some examples, dispersing the plurality of functionalized oat hulls in the thermoplastic polymer may include dispersing a selected amount of the plurality of functionalized oat hulls having a selected amount of functionalizing polymer thereon in a selected amount of thermoplastic polymer (or liquid containing the thermoplastic polymer or derivatives thereof) effective to cause the resulting composite to have a selected wt% of each of the oat hulls, functionalizing polymer, and thermoplastic polymer. For example, dispersing the plurality of functionalized oat hulls in the thermoplastic polymer may include dispersing functionalized oat hulls in the thermoplastic polymer such that the functionalized oat hulls make up about 5 wt% or more of the composition, such as in a range of about 5 wt% to about 99 wt%, about 10 wt% to about 80 wt%, about 25 wt% to about 75 wt%, about 20 wt% to about 60 wt%, about 5 wt% to about 50 wt%, about 10 wt% to about 40 wt%, about 5 wt% to about 20 wt%, less than about 95 wt%, less than about 80 wt%, less than about 50 wt%, less than about 20 wt%, or less than about 10 wt%.

[036] In some examples, the functionalizing polymer can make up about 1 wt% or more of the functionalized oat hulls or composition containing the same, such as in a range of about 1 wt% to about 50 wt%, about 2 wt% to about 25 wt%, about 5 wt% to about 20 wt%, about 1 wt% to about 10 wt%, about 1 wt% to about 5 wt%, about 2 wt% to about 10 wt%, about 5 wt% to about 15 wt%, about 10 wt% to about 30 wt%, about 20 wt% to about 40 wt%, less than about 50 wt%, less than about 25 wt%, less than about 20 wt%, less than about 15 wt%, less than about 10 wt%, or less than about 5 wt% of the functionalized oat hulls or composition containing the same.

[037] In some examples, the method 100 can include adding one or more of a fungicide, an anti-slip agent, or an ultraviolet light stabilizer to at least one of the functionalizing polymer or the thermoplastic polymer. [038] In some examples, the method 100 can include forming the composite into one or more of a film, packaging, an erosion blanket, or any other article.

[039] The techniques and compositions disclosed herein limit the need for expensive functionalizing polymers (e.g. , compatibilizers) by direct application of the functionalizing polymers to the oat hulls, followed by bonding the thermoplastic polymer directly to the functionalizing polymer. Accordingly, direct mixing of fibers, thermoplastics, and compatibilizers to improve phase miscibility between the hydrophilic fiber and hydrophobic thermoplastics can be eliminated, and use of only the necessary amount of a functionalizing polymer (e.g. , agent) can be performed. Also, the techniques and compositions disclosed herein can impart a desired amount of impermeability (e.g. , to oxygen and/or water) to the compositions. The compositions disclosed herein can be used to provide stable storage (e.g. , food storage) materials even in high humidity environments because the oat hulls are rendered substantially impermeable to water and oxygen by the functionalizing coating and/or thermoplastic polymer.

[040] Fig. 2 A is a schematic illustration of a composite material 200, according to at least one example. The composite material 200 includes functionalized oat hulls 205 including oat hulls 210 and functionalizing polymer 220 bonded to the plurality of oat hulls 210; and a thermoplastic matrix 230 bonded to the functionalized oat hulls 205 via the functionalizing polymer 220.

[041] The plurality of oat hulls 210 can include portions of or whole oat hulls. In some examples, the plurality of oat hulls 210 can alternatively or additionally include supplemental biomass, such as such as one or more non-oat biomass fibers or particles (e.g. , ground nut shells, husks, etc.). For example, rather than or in addition to oat hulls, one or more of walnut shells, rice husks, peanut shells, cellulose, nanocellulose, crystalline nanocellulose, bacterial cellulose, microfibrillated cellulose, microcrystalline cellulose, or any other suitable biomass substitute for oat hulls may be used. The plurality of oat hulls 210 can be sized to an average particle size (e.g. , less than about 50 μιη or less than about 5 μιη), such as a single mode or plurality of modes as disclosed above. At least some (e.g., substantially all, a majority of, or each) of the plurality of oat hulls 210 may exhibit a substantially uniform shape (e.g. , substantially spherical) or may be randomly shaped.

[042] The functionalizing polymer 220 can be coated over at least a portion of the outer surface of the oat hulls 210 to form the coated or functionalized oat hulls 205. The functionalizing polymer 220 may form a coating on the plurality of oat hulls 210 having any of the functionalizing polymer thicknesses disclosed herein. The functionalized oat hulls 205 may exhibit any number of modes of average particle sizes. The functionalized (e.g. , coated) oat hulls 205 may exhibit an average particle size of less than about 100 μιη, such as in a range of about 1 μιη to about 100 μιη, about 5 μιη to about 50 μιη, about 10 μιη to about 40 μιη, about 1 μιη to about 20 μιη, about 1 μιη to about 10 μιη, about 2 μιη to about 10 μιη, about 5 μιη to about 15 μιη, about 10 μιη to about 20 μιη, about 20 μιη to about 30 μιη, about 30 μιη to about 40 μιη, about 40 μιη to about 50 μιη, about 1 μιη to about 50 μιη, about 5 μιη to about 45 μιη, less than about 50 μιη, less than about 40 μιη, less than about 30 μιη, less than about 20 μιη, less than about 10 μιη, less than about 5 μιη, or about 5 μιη.

[043] The functionalizing polymer 220 can include an amphiphilic polymer comprising amphiphilic monomer units where a hydrophilic side of the amphiphilic monomer units can be bonded to the outer surface of the oat hulls 210. The functionalizing polymer 220 can include any of the materials for functionalizing polymers 220 disclosed herein. For example, the functionalizing polymer 220 can include one or more of an anhydride (e.g. , maleic anhydride); a monocarboxylic acid (e.g. , butyric acid, caprylic acid, stearic acid, or oleic acid); a dicarboxylic acid (e.g. , succinic acid, adipic acid, etc.); tricarboxylic acids or greater (e.g. , citric acid); a maleic anhydride/ olefin copolymer (e.g. , maleic anhydride polypropylene copolymer); a polyolefin (e.g. , polyethylene), an ethylene/acrylic acid copolymer; cellulose or derivatives thereof (e.g. , hydroxyl ethyl cellulose); derivatives (e.g. , salts, ions, or bound forms) of any of the foregoing, or combinations of any of the foregoing. The functionalizing polymer 220 can include monomers, copolymers, terpolymers, etc., of any of the foregoing monomer or derivatives thereof. For example, the functionalizing polymer 220 can include one or more of polyolefin-grafted maleic anhydride polymer or an ethylene acrylic acid copolymer.

[044] The composite material 200 includes the thermoplastic matrix 230, such as in a layer, film, body, block, or other form. The thermoplastic matrix 230 can include any of materials for thermoplastic polymers disclosed herein. For example, the thermoplastic matrix 230 can include one or more of polypropylene, polycarbonate, polyethylene, HDPE, LDPE, polystyrene, PVC, polyvinylidenechloride, PLA, PHA, PHB, adipates, polyacrylic acid, ethylene vinyl alcohol, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, polyamide, polyethylene terephthalate, polyurethane, polyetherimide, polyether ether ketone, polysulfone, polyoxymethylene, polyvinylidene fluoride, hydroxyethyl cellulose, cellulose, polyvinylidene chloride, ethylene vinyl alcohol, derivatives of any of the foregoing, polymers of any of the foregoing, or combinations of any of the foregoing. The thermoplastic matrix 230 may link (e.g. , covalently bond) to the functionalizing polymer 220. In some examples, one or more of any of the thermoplastic polymers can be used with any of the functionalizing polymers 220 disclosed herein. For example, the functionalizing polymer 220 may include one or more of a polyolefin-grafted maleic anhydride polymer or an ethylene acrylic acid copolymer, and the thermoplastic polymer may include one or more of polypropylene, polyethylene, HDPE, or LDPE.

[045] In some examples, the composite material 200 may exhibit a selected oat hull 210 content, a selected functionalizing polymer 220 content, and a selected thermoplastic matrix 230 (or thermoplastic polymer) content. For example, the thermoplastic matrix 230 and proportion thereof in the composite material 200 may be selected to provide a desired amount of impermeability (e.g. , to oxygen and/or water), tensile strength, or shear strength to the composite material 200. In some examples, the composite material 200 may include about at least about 40 wt% of thermoplastic matrix 230, such as in a range of about 40 wt% to about 99 wt%, about 50 wt% to about 95 wt%, about 60 wt% to about 90 wt%, about 70 wt% to about 85 wt%, about 50 wt% to about 70 wt%, about 80 wt% to about 99 wt%, about 75 wt% to about 95 wt%, about 85 wt% to about 95 wt%, less than about 95 wt%, less than about 90 wt%, less than about 75 wt%, or less than about 60 wt%.

[046] In some examples, the plurality of oat hulls 210 (e.g. , functionalized or unfunctionalized) may comprise about 5 wt% or more of the composite material 200, such as in a range of about 5 wt% to about 99 wt%, about 10 wt% to about 80 wt%, about 25 wt% to about 75 wt%, about 20 wt% to about 60 wt%, about 5 wt% to about 50 wt%, about 10 wt% to about 40 wt%, about 5 wt% to about 20 wt%, less than about 95 wt%, less than about 80 wt%, less than about 50 wt%, less than about 20 wt%, or less than about 10 wt%. In some examples, the plurality of functionalized (e.g. , coated) oat hulls 205 can be dispersed in the thermoplastic matrix 230. In such embodiments, the plurality of functionalized oat hulls 205 can be evenly distributed or randomly distributed throughout at least a portion of the thermoplastic matrix 230. For example, the plurality of functionalized oat hulls 205 can be uniformly distributed throughout the entire thermoplastic matrix 230, or an upper layer or region thereof.

[047] In some examples, the functionalizing polymer 220 can comprise about 1 wt% or more of the composite material 200, such as in a range of about 1 wt% to about 50 wt%, about 2 wt% to about 25 wt%, about 5 wt% to about 20 wt%, about 1 wt% to about 10 wt%, about 1 wt% to about 5 wt%, about 2 wt% to about 5 wt%, about 1 wt% to about 15 wt%, about 3 wt% to about 15 wt%, about 5 wt% to about 15 wt%, about 5 wt% to about 15 wt%, about 10 wt% to about 30 wt%, about 20 wt% to about 40 wt%, less than about 50 wt%, less than about 25 wt%, less than about 20 wt%, less than about 15 wt%, less than about 10 wt%, or less than about 5 wt% of the composite material 200.

[048] In some examples, the functionalizing polymer 220 can comprise about 1 wt% or more of the functionalized oat hulls 205, such as in a range of about 1 wt% to about 50 wt%, about 2 wt% to about 25 wt%, about 5 wt% to about 20 wt%, about 1 wt% to about 10 wt%, about 1 wt% to about 5 wt%, about 2 wt% to about 10 wt%, about 5 wt% to about 15 wt%, about 10 wt% to about 30 wt%, about 20 wt% to about 40 wt%, less than about 50 wt%, less than about 25 wt%, less than about 20 wt%, less than about 15 wt%, less than about 10 wt%, or less than about 5 wt% of the functionalized (e.g. , coated) oat hulls 205.

[049] In some examples, the functionalizing polymer 220 and thermoplastic polymer in the thermoplastic matrix 230 may be chemically different species. In some examples, the functionalizing polymer 220 (e.g. , a copolymer) or thermoplastic polymer may include both a hydrophobic portion and a hydrophilic portion, such that both a functionalizing polymer and a thermoplastic polymer are not necessary. Put another way, the thermoplastic polymer component may be included in the functionalizing polymer 220, or the functionalizing polymer component may be included in the thermoplastic polymer. In such examples, one of the functionalizing polymer and the thermoplastic polymer may be omitted. For example, the composition may include oat hulls 210 and a functionalizing polymer 220 or thermoplastic polymer having a long chain of carbon atoms (e.g. , about 10 carbon units or more) such as ethylene acrylic acid, an aliphatic hydrocarbon, an olefin, etc.

[050] In some examples, the composite material 200 can include at least one additive, such as one or more of a fungicide, one or more colorants, one or more anti-slip agents, one or more ultraviolet light stabilizers, or one or more light blockers. For example, it may be desired to prevent one or more wavelengths of light from passing through the packaging. In such examples, a colorant or light blocker may be included in the composite material 200. The at least one additive can may be disposed in or on one or more of the functionalizing polymer or the thermoplastic matrix. The at least one additive may be at least about 0.1 wt% of the composite material 200, such as in a range of about 0.1 wt% to about 10 wt%, about 0.2 wt% to about 5 wt%, about 0.5 wt% to about 2 wt%, about 0.1 wt% to about 1 wt%, about 1 wt% to about 3 wt%, about 3 wt% to about 5 wt%, about 5 wt% to about 10 wt%, less than about 10 wt%, less than about 5 wt%, less than about 3 wt%, less than about 2 wt%, or less than about 1 wt% of the composite material 200.

[051] In some examples, the composite material 200 or thermoplastic matrix 230 (e.g. , containing the functionalized oat hulls 205 therein) can be at least about 50 μιη thick, such as in a range of about 50 μιη to about 10 cm, about 100 μιη to about 5 cm, about 250 μιη to about 3 cm, about 500 μιη to about 1 cm, about 1 cm to about 10 cm, about 100 μιη to about 1 cm, about 50 μιη to about 1 cm, about 50 μιη to about 5 mm, about 100 μιη to about 3 mm, about 250 μιη to about 2 mm, about 500 μιη to about 5 mm, about 1 mm to about 1 cm, about 1 mm to about 5 mm, about 50 μιη to about 1 mm, about 100 μιη to about 500 μιη, about 200 μιη to about 700 μιη, about 500 μιη to about 1 mm, less than about 10 cm, less than about 5 cm, less than about 1 cm, less than about 5 mm, less than about 3 mm, less than about 1 mm, or less than about 500 μιη.

[052] In some examples, the composite material 200 may include a plurality of layers, such as a first layer, and at least a second layer. In some examples, at least the first layer may include a plurality of oat hulls, functionalizing polymer, thermoplastic polymer, a first thickness (e.g. , layer thickness), and any other characteristics (e.g. , oat hull thickness, functionalization polymer thickness or type, etc.) and at least some of the layers (e.g. , each layer) may include a thermoplastic polymer. For example, the first layer may include a first plurality of oat hulls, a first functionalizing polymer, a first thermoplastic polymer, a first thickness (e.g. , layer thickness), and any other characteristics (e.g. , oat hull thickness, functionalization polymer thickness or type, etc.) disclosed herein; and at least a second layer may include at least a second plurality of oat hulls, at least a second functionalizing polymer, at least a second thermoplastic polymer, at least a second thickness, and any other characteristics disclosed herein. In some examples, one or more of the first plurality of oat hulls, first functionalizing polymer, first thermoplastic polymer, first thickness, or any other characteristics of the first layer may be identical to or different than the at least a second plurality of oat hulls, at least a second functionalizing polymer, at least a second thermoplastic polymer, at least a second thickness, or any other characteristics associated with the at least a second layer. Any of the thicknesses, materials, polymers, wt%, disclosed herein may be used in combination with any of the layers disclosed herein. [053] Fig. 2B is a schematic illustration of a composite material 200, according to at least one example. Fig. 2B shows a close-up of one of the oat hulls 210 disposed in the thermoplastic matrix 230 and the functionalizing polymer 220 extending therebetween. The oat hull 210 includes an outer surface 212. The functionalizing polymer 220 may be bonded to the outer surface 212 of the oat hull 210 via a bond 215 (e.g. , covalent bond). The outer surface 212 may initially have one or more functional groups or moieties thereon that are suitable for bonding to a hydrophilic molecule or portion thereof. For example, the surface of plant fibers, including oat hulls, contains terminal hydroxyl groups, which facilitate bonding of hydrophilic molecules to the plant fibers. For example, cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin contain hydroxyl groups which may bond with or react to polymers (e.g. , functionalizing polymers) to provide a bond therebetween. The polymers bonded to the surface 212 of the oat hull 210 may be bonded to (or polymerized) a polymer, such as any of the thermoplastic polymers disclosed herein. The thermoplastic polymers form the thermoplastic matrix 230. The thermoplastic matrix 230 can be defined at least in part by the size of the monomer units in the thermoplastic polymers and the number of monomer units in the thermoplastic polymer. For example, the thermoplastic matrix 230 may be defined at least in part by thermoplastic polymers bonded to the functionalizing polymer 220, at least some of which have at least about 1 mer unit, such as about 1 mer unit to about 100,000 mer units, about 5 mer units to about 10,000 mer units, or more than about 10 mer units. As an example, the thermoplastic polymer may include an oligomer.

[054] The various components described in Figs. 2A and 2B are merely examples, and other variations, including eliminating components, combining components, and substituting components are all contemplated.

[055] The composite materials disclosed herein may be selectively formulated and shaped (e.g. , extruded, co-extruded, layered, molded, etc.) to provide one or more useful articles. In some examples, the composite material may exhibit a selected oat hull content, a selected functionalizing polymer content, and a selected thermoplastic matrix (or thermoplastic polymer) content to provide the desired properties to the articles. For example, a composite material may include a density suitable for use as a building material (e.g. , window frames, decking material, etc.), automotive use (e.g. , panels, trim, etc.), packaging (e.g. , film, corrugated board, etc.), or any other use. In some examples, the density of the composite can be at least about 0.1 g/cc, such as in a range from about 0.1 g/cc to about 1.5 g/cc, about 0.5 g/cc to about 1.0 g/cc, about 0.7 g/cc to about 1.2 g/cc, about 0.9 g/cc to about 1.2 g/cc, about 1 g/cc to about 1.2 g/cc, less than about 1.5 g/cc, less than about 1.2 g/cc, or less than about 1.0 g/cc.

[056] Figs. 3A-3D are schematic illustrations of articles having any of the composite materials disclosed herein, according to various examples. Fig. 3A shows packaging 350 including one or more portions made from a composite material 300. The composite material 300 may be similar or identical to any composite material disclosed herein. The composite material 300 may be formed (e.g. , extruded or molded) into a packaging 350, such as a container or a bag as shown. Providing the packaging 350 having the composite material 300 therein may include forming the packaging 350, such as via extrusion, co- extrusion, molding, etc. The packaging 350 may be used to store food or other perishable items, store non-perishable goods (e.g. , clothes, toys, etc.), used as garbage bags, used as grocery bags, or any other suitable purpose.

[057] The thickness of the composite material 300 may be selected to provide a desired amount of strength, flexibility, transparency, or other properties. The thickness of the composite material 300 may be any of the thicknesses for a composite material disclosed herein. In some examples, the composite material 300 may exhibit a selected oat hull content, a selected functionalizing polymer type and/or content, and a selected thermoplastic matrix (or thermoplastic polymer) type and/or content to provide the desired physical properties to the packaging 350. For example, the oat hull content of the packaging 350 may be less than about 20 wt% (e.g. , less than about 10 wt%) of the composite material 300. In such examples, the oat hulls may allow for use of less polymer in the composite material 300 (than those composite materials not containing oat hulls), while retaining the desired physical characteristics of the thermoplastic polymer (e.g., LDPE) and using the oat hulls in an environmentally friendly way. In an example, the average particle size of the oat hulls in the packaging 350 may be about 5 μιη or less.

[058] Fig. 3B shows film 360 including one or more portions made from the composite material 300. The composite material 300 may be similar or identical to any composite material disclosed herein. The composite material 300 may be formed into a film 360 via extrusion. Providing the film 360 having the composite material 300 therein may include forming the film 360, such as via extrusion, pouring, etc. The film 360 may be formed into a wrap, a bag, a portion of a box (e.g. , window, top, or side). The film 360 may be formed into a roll for later use, may be used to cover food (e.g. , cling wrap), or any other suitable purpose. [059] The thickness of the composite material 300 may be selected to provide a desired amount of strength, flexibility, transparency, or other properties to the film 360. The thickness of the composite material 300 may be any of the thicknesses for a composite material disclosed herein. In some examples, the composite material 300 may exhibit a selected oat hull content, a selected functionalizing polymer type and/or content, and a selected thermoplastic matrix (or thermoplastic polymer) type and/or content to provide the desired physical properties to the film 360. For example, the oat hull content of the film 360 may be less than about 20 wt% (e.g. , less than about 10 wt%) of the composite material 300. In such examples, the oat hulls may allow for use of less polymer in the composite material 300 (than those composite materials not containing oat hulls), while retaining the desired physical characteristics of the thermoplastic (e.g., LDPE or HDPE) and using the oat hulls in an environmentally friendly way.

[060] In some examples, the film 360 can include about 1 weight% to about 20 weight% oat hulls, about 2 weight% to about 10 weight% of the functionalizing polymer, and the plurality of oat hulls in the plurality of coated oat hulls may have an average particle size in a range of about 1 μιη to about 5 μιη.

[061] In some examples, the film 360 can be formed by coating whole or ground oat hulls (e.g. , having a 5 μιη or smaller average particle size) with a functionalizing polymer (e.g. , succinic acid or adipic acid), and dispersing the functionalized oat hulls in a thermoplastic polymer (e.g. , LDPE or HDPE) to form a composite. The oat hulls can be optionally cured after one or more adding the functionalizing polymer or the thermoplastic polymer. Optionally, the functionalized and/or thermoplastic oat hulls can be cured for about 3 minutes to about 10 minutes at about 150 °C to about 170 °C. The composite can be extruded to form the film. The film 360 can include about 10 wt% to about 50 wt% of oat hulls, about 50 wt% to about 75 wt% of thermoplastic polymer, and about 1 wt% to about 5 wt% functionalizing polymer. The film 360 can be extruded to a thickness of about 250 μιη to about 2 mm. In some examples, the functionalizing polymer can include more than one monomer species which perform different functions on the surface of the oat hull or can polymerize with or bond to form a polymer (e.g. , copolymer). For example, a first monomer species can include one or more of succinic acid, adipic acid, or citric acid, and a second monomer species can include one or more of butyric acid, caprylic acid, stearic acid, or oleic acid. In such examples, the first monomer may be a bridging agent composed to compatibilize the surface of the oat hull with a hydrophobic thermoplastic, and the second monomer can be a hydrophobic agent composed to render the surface of the oat hull hydrophobic. In some examples, the functionalizing polymer can include materials from renewable sources such as citric acid.

[062] In some examples, the film or packaging of Figs. 3A or 3B may include a multilayered configuration. For example, a film or packaging may include a first layer of thermoplastic, a second layer of the composite material 300, and a third layer of thermoplastic. The second layer may be sandwiched between the first and third layers. Multilayered configurations may include one or more layers of composite material 300 and one or more layers of thermoplastic material (e.g. , bio-derived thermoplastic or a synthetic thermoplastic). The thermoplastic material can include any of the thermoplastic materials disclosed herein. The thermoplastic material can form one of an innermost or outermost layer of a multilayered configuration. The thicknesses of each layer of the multilayer configuration can include any combination of the thicknesses for composite materials or films disclosed herein. The multilayered configuration can be formed via co- extrusion. For example, a composite material 300 core layer can be co-extruded between one or more thermoplastic polymer layers.

[063] Fig. 3C shows a box 370 including one or more portions made from the composite material 300. The composite material 300 may be similar or identical to any composite material disclosed herein. The composite material 300 may be formed into a box 370 via extrusion. Providing the box 370 having the composite material 300 therein may include forming the box 370, such as via extrusion, molding, pressing, etc. The box 370 may be formed into a box or preform (e.g. , perforated sheet) for later use as a container, may be used to hold items, or any other suitable purpose. The box 370 may include only one portion thereon containing the composite material 300, such as in a window, lid, or side. The remainder of the box may be any other material, such as cardboard, paperboard, a polymer, or wood; or may include one or more additional composite materials (e.g. , composite materials having the same or a different composition than the composite material 300). The box 370 may have any configuration, such as a food container (e.g. , an oyster pale, single or multiple compartment hinged food containers (e.g. , containers traditionally made from polystyrene foam), on shelf food boxes (e.g. , cereal boxes, snack boxes, cookie boxes, etc.), beverage or fluid containers (e.g. , cups, tubs, lids, or boxes), non-perishable goods box (e.g. , cloths or toys), corrugated material, or any other packaging.

[064] The thickness of the composite material 300 may be selected to provide a desired amount of strength, flexibility, transparency, or other properties to the box 370. The thickness of the composite material 300 may be any of the thicknesses for a composite material disclosed herein. In some examples, the composite material 300 may exhibit a selected oat hull content, a selected functionalizing polymer type and/or content, and a selected thermoplastic matrix (or thermoplastic polymer) type and/or content to provide the desired physical properties to the box 370. For example, the oat hull content of the box 370 (or a portion thereof containing the composite material 300) may be less than about 50 wt% (e.g. , 30 wt%) of the composite material 300. In such examples, the oat hulls may allow for use of less polymer in the composite material 300 (than those composite materials not containing oat hulls), while retaining the desired physical characteristics of the thermoplastic (e.g., LDPE or HDPE) and using the oat hulls in an environmentally friendly way. In some examples, it may be desirable to include a fungicide or light blocker to the composite material 300 to prevent fungal growth in the box 370 or selected wavelengths of light from passing through the box 370.

[065] In some examples, the composite materials disclosed herein may be used as a fibers, filler, or packaging material. In such examples, the composite material may be formed into fibers. The composite material may be cut into fibers from a composite material film or may be directly formed into fibers such as via extrusion. The fibers may have any suitable size, such as at least about 1 mm wide (e.g., about 1 mm to about 2 cm or about 2 mm to about 1 cm) and about 1 mm long (e.g. , about 1 mm to about 1 m, about 5 mm to about 10 cm, or about 2 mm to about 5 cm). The fibers may also be used for purposes other than packaging or fillers.

[066] Fig. 3D shows an erosion blanket 380 including a body 382 having one or more portions (e.g. , fibers 384 or regions) made from the composite material 300. The composite material 300 may be similar or identical to any composite material disclosed herein. The composite material 300 may be formed into fibers 384 which may be formed into the body 382 of the erosion blanket 380. The body 382 may include a plurality of woven, agglomerated, quilted, or otherwise collected fibers 384. The fibers 384 may be formed into the body 382 of the erosion blanket 380 via one or more of weaving, anchoring with mesh, quilting, or any other suitable technique. Providing the erosion blanket 380 having the composite material 300 therein may include forming the fibers 384 and/or the body 382, such as via extrusion, pouring, cutting, quilting, weaving, securing with a mesh outer layer, etc. The erosion blanket 380 may be formed into a roll for later use, may be used to cover areas of soil or land, or any other suitable purpose. [067] The composition and/or thickness of the composite material 300 may be selected to provide a desired amount of strength, flexibility, transparency, or other properties to the erosion blanket 380. The thickness of the composite material 300 may be any of the thicknesses for a composite material disclosed herein. In some examples, the composite material 300 may exhibit a selected oat hull content, a selected functionalizing polymer type and/or content, and a selected thermoplastic matrix (or thermoplastic polymer) type and/or content to provide the desired physical properties to the erosion blanket 380. For example, the oat hull content of the erosion blanket 380 may be about 50 wt% to about 80 wt% of the composite material 300. A hydrophobic polymer matrix encapsulating the relatively high amount of oat hulls in the composite material 300 of the erosion blanket 380 may provide for water resistance, strength, and other physical properties desired in an erosion blanket, while utilizing an inexpensive and available material therein (e.g. , reducing the amount of polymers required over traditional, all polymer erosion blanket materials).

[068] The body 382 may be a mat or blanket. The body 382 may define the outer dimensions and surfaces of the erosion blanket 380. The body 382 of the erosion blanket 380 may have any suitable dimensions for use as an erosion blanket. For example, the body 382 may have thickness (e.g. , height) of at least about 1 cm (e.g. , in a range of about 1 cm to about 20 cm, about 5 cm to about 30 cm). The body 382 may include one or more lateral dimensions including a length and/or width of at least about 30 cm (e.g. , at least about 1 m, at least about 3 m, at least about 5 m, or ranges including any of the preceding as endpoints).

[069] In some examples, the body 382 of an erosion blanket 380 may include one or more layers of fibers 384. In such examples, the body 382 may include only a top layer of the fibers 384 and one or more layers of fibers or materials that do not contain the composite material 300. In some examples, the body 382 may include a top and bottom layer (e.g. , outermost layers) of the fibers 384 with an optional filler material therebetween, where the filler material differs from the material make-up of the fibers 384, such as a natural fiber (e.g. , straw, hay, etc.).

[070] In some examples, an erosion blanket 380 can be made and installed in situ. For example, oat hulls can be modified by precoating the oat hulls having an average particle size of less than about 5 μιη with an ethylene acrylic acid copolymer (e.g. , via spraying, dispersing, or mixing the oat hulls with the ethylene acrylic acid copolymer). The hydrophilic carboxyl group can bond to the oat hull and the hydrophobic ethylene or polyethylene derivatives can repel water. The oat hull content of the coated oat hulls can be about 70 wt% to about 80 wt% oat hulls, and the ethylene acrylic acid copolymer (e.g. , both a functionalizing polymer and thermoplastic polymer in this instance) can be about 20 wt% to about 30 wt% of the coated oat hulls. The coated oat hulls can be sprayed into a layer or layers, such as in a fluid medium (e.g. , hot air or a liquid medium). The layer or layers of coated oat hulls can be pressed (e.g. , rolled or stamped in place) to form a coherent body (e.g. , via bonding between one or more of carboxyl functional groups, ethylenes, or ethylene derivatives). The coherent body can parallel any contours of the ground or other substrate underneath the coherent body.

[071] The present disclosure is not to be limited in terms of the particular examples described in this application, which are intended as illustrations of various aspects. Many modifications and examples can be made without departing from its spirit and scope, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Functionally equivalent methods and apparatuses within the scope of the disclosure, in addition to those enumerated herein, will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the foregoing descriptions. Such modifications and examples are intended to fall within the scope of the appended claims. The present disclosure is to be limited only by the terms of the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled. It is to be understood that this disclosure is not limited to particular methods, reagents, compounds compositions or biological systems, which can, of course, vary. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular examples only, and is not intended to be limiting.

[072] With respect to the use of substantially any plural and/or singular terms herein, those having skill in the art can translate from the plural to the singular and/or from the singular to the plural as is appropriate to the context and/or application. The various singular/plural permutations may be expressly set forth herein for sake of clarity.

[073] It will be understood by those within the art that, in general, terms used herein, and especially in the appended claims (e.g. , bodies of the appended claims) are generally intended as "open" terms (e.g. , the term "including" should be interpreted as "including but not limited to," the term "having" should be interpreted as "having at least," the term "includes" should be interpreted as "includes but is not limited to," etc.).

[074] It will be further understood by those within the art that if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is intended, such an intent will be explicitly recited in the claim, and, in the absence of such recitation, no such intent is present. For example, as an aid to understanding, the following appended claims may contain usage of the introductory phrases "at least one" and "one or more" to introduce claim recitations. However, the use of such phrases should not be construed to imply that the introduction of a claim recitation by the indefinite articles "a" or "an" limits any particular claim containing such introduced claim recitation to examples containing only one such recitation, even when the same claim includes the introductory phrases "one or more" or "at least one" and indefinite articles such as "a" or "an" (e.g. , "a" and/or "an" should be interpreted to mean "at least one" or "one or more"); the same holds true for the use of definite articles used to introduce claim recitations. In addition, even if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is explicitly recited, those skilled in the art will recognize that such recitation should be interpreted to mean at least the recited number (e.g. , the bare recitation of "two recitations," without other modifiers, means at least two recitations, or two or more recitations).

[075] Furthermore, in those instances where a convention analogous to "at least one of A, B, and C, etc." is used, in general, such a construction is intended in the sense one having skill in the art would understand the convention (e.g. , "a system having at least one of A, B, and C" would include but not be limited to systems that have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and/or A, B, and C together, etc.). In those instances where a convention analogous to "at least one of A, B, or C, etc." is used, in general such a construction is intended in the sense one having skill in the art would understand the convention (e.g. , "a system having at least one of A, B, or C" would include but not be limited to systems that have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and/or A, B, and C together, etc.). It will be further understood by those within the art that virtually any disjunctive word and/or phrase presenting two or more alternative terms, whether in the description, claims, or drawings, should be understood to contemplate the possibilities of including one of the terms, either of the terms, or both terms. For example, the phrase "A or B" will be understood to include the possibilities of "A" or "B" or "A and B."

[076] In addition, where features or aspects of the disclosure are described in terms of Markush groups, those skilled in the art will recognize that the disclosure is also thereby described in terms of any individual member or subgroup of members of the Markush group.

[077] As will be understood by one skilled in the art, for any and all purposes, such as in terms of providing a written description, all ranges disclosed herein also encompass any and all possible subranges and combinations of subranges thereof. Any listed range can be easily recognized as sufficiently describing and enabling the same range being broken down into at least equal halves, thirds, quarters, fifths, tenths, etc. As a non-limiting example, each range discussed herein can be readily broken down into a lower third, middle third and upper third, etc. As will also be understood by one skilled in the art all language such as "up to," "at least," "greater than," "less than," and the like include the number recited and refer to ranges which can be subsequently broken down into subranges as discussed above. Finally, as will be understood by one skilled in the art, a range includes each individual member. Thus, for example, a group having 1-3 items refers to groups having 1, 2, or 3 items. Similarly, a group having 1-5 items refers to groups having 1 , 2, 3, 4, or 5 items, and so forth.

[078] While the foregoing detailed description has set forth various examples of the devices and/or processes via the use of block diagrams, flowcharts, and/or examples, such block diagrams, flowcharts, and/or examples contain one or more functions and/or operations, it will be understood by those within the art that each function and/or operation within such block diagrams, flowcharts, or examples can be implemented, individually and/or collectively, by a wide range of hardware, software, firmware, or virtually any combination thereof. In one example, several portions of the subject matter described herein may be implemented via Application Specific Integrated Circuits (ASICs), Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs), digital signal processors (DSPs), or other integrated formats. However, those skilled in the art will recognize that some aspects of the examples disclosed herein, in whole or in part, can be equivalently implemented in integrated circuits, as one or more computer programs running on one or more computers (e.g. , as one or more programs running on one or more computer systems), as one or more programs running on one or more processors (e.g. , as one or more programs running on one or more microprocessors), as firmware, or as virtually any combination thereof, and that designing the circuitry and/or writing the code for the software and/or firmware would be well within the skill of one of skill in the art in light of this disclosure. For example, if a user determines that speed and accuracy are paramount, the user may opt for a mainly hardware and/or firmware vehicle; if flexibility is paramount, the user may opt for a mainly software implementation; or, yet again alternatively, the user may opt for some combination of hardware, software, and/or firmware. [079] In addition, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the mechanisms of the subject matter described herein are capable of being distributed as a program product in a variety of forms, and that an illustrative example of the subject matter described herein applies regardless of the particular type of signal bearing medium used to actually carry out the distribution. Examples of a signal bearing medium include, but are not limited to, the following: a recordable type medium such as a floppy disk, a hard disk drive (HDD), a Compact Disc (CD), a Digital Video Disk (DVD), a digital tape, a computer memory, etc.; and a transmission type medium such as a digital and/or an analog communication medium (e.g. , a fiber optic cable, a waveguide, a wired communications link, a wireless communication link, etc.).

[080] Those skilled in the art will recognize that it is common within the art to describe devices and/or processes in the fashion set forth herein, and thereafter use engineering practices to integrate such described devices and/or processes into data processing systems. That is, at least a portion of the devices and/or processes described herein can be integrated into a data processing system via a reasonable amount of experimentation. Those having skill in the art will recognize that a typical data processing system generally includes one or more of a system unit housing, a video display device, a memory such as volatile and non-volatile memory, processors such as microprocessors and digital signal processors, computational entities such as operating systems, drivers, graphical user interfaces, and applications programs, one or more interaction devices, such as a touch pad or screen, and/or control systems including feedback loops and control motors (e.g. , feedback for sensing position and/or velocity; control motors for moving and/or adjusting components and/or quantities). A typical data processing system may be implemented utilizing any suitable commercially available components, such as those typically found in data computing/communication and/or network computing/communication systems.

[081] The herein described subject matter sometimes illustrates different components contained within, or connected with, different other components. It is to be understood that such depicted architectures are merely examples, and that in fact many other architectures can be implemented which achieve the same functionality. In a conceptual sense, any arrangement of components to achieve the same functionality is effectively "associated" such that the desired functionality is achieved. Hence, any two components herein combined to achieve a particular functionality can be seen as "associated with" each other such that the desired functionality is achieved, irrespective of architectures or intermedial components. Likewise, any two components so associated can also be viewed as being "operably connected", or "operably coupled", to each other to achieve the desired functionality, and any two components capable of being so associated can also be viewed as being "operably couplable" to each other to achieve the desired functionality. Specific examples of operably couplable include but are not limited to physically mateable and/or physically interacting components and/or wirelessly interactable and/or wirelessly interacting components and/or logically interacting and/or logically interactable components.

[082] While various aspects and examples have been disclosed herein, other aspects and examples will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The various aspects and examples disclosed herein are for purposes of illustration and are not intended to be limiting, with the true scope and spirit being indicated by the following claims.