Influence of low-melting-point SnPb alloy powder on the performance of polylactic acid in injection molding

Abstract

Polylactic acid is a thermoplastic polymer material known for its excellent biocompatibility, although it suffers from subpar rheological and mechanical properties. In this study, an investigation was carried out to assess how low filling degree, low melting point tin–lead alloy powder affects the mechanical and rheological properties of the PLA matrix during the injection molding process. The results of the study indicated that SnPb alloy powder could effectively enhance the melt flow of PLA during processing and serve as a solid filler after molding, resulting in a significant improvement of the material’s mechanical properties.