Maleic anhydride has previously been grafted on to various grades of poly(lactic acid) (PLA) in order to improve the interphase between it and a variety of biodegradable cellulose-based fillers and nanofillers to enhance mechanical properties and increase the rate of crystallization. We have found that incorporation of lignin-coated cellulose nanocrystals (L-CNCs) in various grades of PLA by melt mixing leads to improved mechanical properties even though the interactions were only noncovalent. In order to develop covalent interactions between the PLA and L-CNCs we have investigated the use of dicumyl peroxide (DCP), with and without maleic anhydride, as free radical coupling agent. We have observed as part of this study that various grades of PLA behave differently upon addition of DCP in the melt phase. Processing experiments using combinations of PLA, DCP, maleic anhydride, and L-CNCs were conducted. The thermomechanical properties of new materials produces will be described.

Poly(lactic acid) bio-based composites by high torque melt mixing

256th National Meeting (2018)

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