Abstract
This paper examines the effect of the melt viscosities of the two component polymers on the morphology and mechanical properties of a series of biodegradable polymer blends. Melt blended compounds of poly(lactic acid) (PLA) and poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT) are prepared and their melt viscosities, thermal properties, crystallinity, mechanical properties and phase morphology are investigated. From the relative melt viscosities of PLA and PBAT in the processing regime used in the study, it is possible to calculate the volume fraction at which a co-continuous phase structure is formed. The predicted value is 19 wt% of PBAT and this value is verified by the results of mechanical properties, where results for elongation-to-break show a dramatic rise from around 10% up to 300% in the composition range between 10 and 20 wt% of PBAT. The co-continuous phase structure is also validated by scanning electron microscopy.Graphical
Highlights
There has been a huge growth in the development of bio-degradable plastics to reduce the environmental impact of the disposal of conventional oil-based plastics [1,2,3]
Tensile testing was used to determine the mechanical properties of poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT)/poly(lactic acid) (PLA) blends and to look for evidence of co-continuous phase formation
A range of melt blended compounds were prepared at various PBAT/PLA weight ratios of 0/100, 20/80, 40/60, 60/40, 80/20 and 100/0
Summary
There has been a huge growth in the development of bio-degradable plastics to reduce the environmental impact of the disposal of conventional oil-based plastics [1,2,3]. Those bio-degradable polymers that are bio-based, i.e. derived from renewable feedstocks, have the added advantage of a reduced carbon footprint. In the growing bio-based economy, poly(lactic acid) (PLA) is one of the most prominent thermoplastics [4]. It is used in packaging and other short-life disposable applications, as well as in biomedical products because of its biocompatibility. This disadvantage significantly limits the application of PLA in ductile products
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
