Preparation, Characterization and Properties of Binary and Ternary Blends with Thermoplastic Starch, Poly(Lactic Acid) and Poly(Butylene Succinate)

Abstract

Binay and ternary blends of thermoplastic starch (TPS), poly(lactic acid) (PLA) and poly(butylene succinate) (PBS) were prepared using a one-step extrusion process. The concentration of TPS in both binary and ternary blends was fixed at 50 wt%, with the rest being PLA and PBS. A compatibilizer was used to improve the interfacial affinity between TPS and the polyester. The thermal properties, mechanical properties and water absorption were characterized. The result showed that the mechanical properties of the blends exhibited a dramatic improvement in elongation at break with increasing PBS content; the process properties and heat softening characteristics improved by adding PBS to the blends. Binary and ternary blends with TPS/PLA/PBS could be applied as necessary by changing the content of the component.