Mechanical, thermal and morphological properties of poly(lactic acid)/epoxidized palm olein blend

Area of Science:

• Polymer Science
• Materials Science
• Sustainable Packaging

Background:

• Poly(lactic acid) (PLA) is a biodegradable alternative to petroleum-based polymers.
• Low flexibility currently limits PLA's application in packaging.
• Enhancing PLA's flexibility is crucial for broader material adoption.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the potential of epoxidized palm olein (EPO) as a plasticizer for PLA.
• To evaluate the effect of varying EPO concentrations on PLA's mechanical and thermal properties.
• To assess the compatibility and morphology of PLA/EPO blends.

Main Methods:

• Melt blending of PLA with EPO at different weight percentages (1-5 wt%).
• Characterization of blend properties including glass transition temperature, elongation-at-break, tensile, flexural, and impact strength.
• Morphological analysis using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM).

Main Results:

• EPO addition decreased PLA's glass transition temperature, indicating increased chain mobility.
• Elongation-at-break significantly increased with EPO incorporation.
• PLA/EPO blends exhibited improved tensile, flexural, and impact properties, particularly at 1 wt% EPO.
• SEM analysis revealed improved compatibility and morphology in the blends.

Conclusions:

• Epoxidized palm olein effectively plasticizes poly(lactic acid).
• PLA/EPO blends demonstrate enhanced mechanical performance and flexibility.
• The findings support the feasibility of using EPO-plasticized PLA for flexible food packaging films.