Poly(lactic acid) (PLA) is a biodegradable and biocompatible thermoplastic polyester with high modulus and strength. It has great potential to replace petroleum-based plastics. However, the widespread application of PLA is limited because of brittleness and low heat resistance caused by a slow crystallization rate. In this contribution, high-tenacity cellulose fibers (Rayon tire cord yarn) were used to reinforce PLA.  In addition to the well-known reinforcement effect of Rayon fibers, the results show that these fibers accelerate the crystallization of PLA during the annealing process. Moreover, the influence of interfacial modification, i.e. strong and weak fiber-matrix adhesion, on PLA crystallization was investigated.  The crystallinity and resulting mechanical properties of PLA and PLA composites as a function of annealing time and temperature were determined by DSC, X-ray scattering, DMTA, tensile tests, and Charpy impact tests. Some conclusions for the injection molding of PLA and Rayon reinforced PLA shaped bodies with higher heat resistance are drawn.

Cellulose fiber reinforcement for improved PLA heat stability via accelerated crystallization

245th National Meeting (2013)

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