Abstract
Stereocomplexation is one of several approaches for improving polylactide (PLA) properties. The high molecular weight of poly L-lactide (PLLA) and poly D-lactide (PDLA) homopolymers are a constraint during the formation of stereocomplex PLAs (s-PLAs). The presence of s-PLA particles in PLA PLLA/PDLA blends can initiate the formation of s-PLA crystalline structures. We used the solution casting method to study the utilization of s-PLA materials from high molecular weight PLLA/PDLA blends for increasing s-PLA formation. The s-PLA particles initiated the formation of high molecular weight PLLA/PDLA blends, obtaining 49.13% s-PLA and 44.34% of the total crystalline fraction. In addition, the mechanical properties were enhanced through s-PLA crystalline formation and the increasing of total crystallinity of the PLLA/PDLA blends. The s-PLA particles supported initiation for s-PLA formation and acted as a nucleating agent for PLA homopolymers. These unique characteristics of s-PLA particles show potential to overcome the molecular weight limitation for stereocomplexation of PLLA/PDLA blends.
Highlights
Environmental concerns have driven attention toward developing degradable polymers and recycling non-degradable polymers
We evaluated the degree of stereocomplex PLAs (s-PLAs) formation from poly L-lactide (PLLA)/poly D-lactide (PDLA) blends, assessed any improvements in mechanical properties, and studied the effect of s-PLA particle size
Results and Discussion expected the utilization of s-PLA crystallites to improve the stereocomplex formationWe of expected high molecular weight
Summary
Environmental concerns have driven attention toward developing degradable polymers and recycling non-degradable polymers. Replacing fossil fuel-based polymers with degradable polymers and recyclable or reusable non-degradable polymers would help mitigate environmental problems. Polylactide (PLA) is an economically feasible and bio-based polymer that has the potential to replace non-degradable polymers. PLA is biodegradable and biocompatible [1,2]. PLA has mechanical and thermal limitations when compared to fossil fuel-based polymers. There are many strategies to solve property limitations of PLA materials. Stereocomplex polylactide (s-PLA) is one of the methods for improving the properties of PLA
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