Full bio-based flame retardant towards multifunctional polylactic acid: Crystallization, flame retardant, antibacterial and enhanced mechanical properties

Abstract

The preparation of flame-retardant high-performance polylactic acid (PLA) composites by adding green flame retardants have always been a challenge. In this work, an intumescent flame-retardant PCR based on phytic acid, chitosan, and resveratrol was successfully designed. Adding 4 wt% of PCR, the PLA-PCR composite was classified as UL-94 V-0 grade, with a LOI value increasing from 19.7 % (pure PLA) to 26.0 %, a peak heat release rate decreasing from 433 to 344 kW/m2. Owing to excellent compatibility of PCR, the mechanical strength and toughness of PLA-PCR composites have been improved, as reflected by a ~ 16 % increase in tensile strength, a ~ 73 % increase in impact strength and a ~ 57 % increase in toughness. In addition, PCR also presented plasticization effect on PLA, making it easier to process. This work provided a highly efficient and environmental-friendly modification approach for the development of multifunctional polymers.