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Uncompatibilized PBAT/PLA Blends: Manufacturability, Miscibility and Properties
Shen Su1,2, Mona Duhme1, Rodion Kopitzky1
1Department of Circular and Bio-based Plastics, Fraunhofer UMSICHT, Institute for Environment, Safety and Energy Technology, Osterfelder Str. 3, 46047 Oberhausen, Germany.
Materials (Basel, Switzerland)
|November 4, 2020
Summary
Polymer blends of poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT) and polylactide (PLA) show phase separation despite theoretical miscibility. Mechanical properties, like elongation at break, decrease with increasing PLA content, with tear resistance correlating to elongation.
Area of Science:
- Polymer Science
- Materials Science
- Bioplastics
Background:
- Polymer blends of poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT) and polylactide (PLA) are investigated for packaging and agricultural film applications.
- Understanding the manufacturability, miscibility, and mechanical properties of uncompatibilized PBAT/PLA blends is crucial for optimizing their performance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the manufacturability, miscibility, and mechanical properties of uncompatibilized PBAT/PLA blends.
- To investigate the influence of different preparation techniques (melt-blending, pressed panels, flat films, blown films) on blend properties.
- To analyze the thermal, morphological, rheological, and mechanical characteristics of PBAT/PLA blends across various ratios.
Main Methods:
- Melt-blending of PBAT and PLA in ratios from 90/10 to 10/90.
- Processing of compounds into pressed panels, flat films, and blown films.
- Investigation of thermal (DSC), morphological (SEM), rheological, and mechanical properties (tensile, tear tests).
Main Results:
- Despite theoretical miscibility based on solubility parameters, PBAT/PLA blends exhibit phase separation, indicated by two distinct glass transition temperatures and SEM morphology.
- Phase morphology is dependent on blend ratios and preparation techniques.
- Increasing polylactide (PLA) content reduces elongation at break, with a strong correlation found between elongation at break and tear propagation resistance.
- The trouser tear method is more effective than the Elmendorf tear method for evaluating highly extensible blown films.
Conclusions:
- Uncompatibilized PBAT/PLA blends undergo phase separation, impacting their mechanical performance.
- Blend properties, particularly morphology and mechanical strength, are significantly influenced by processing methods and component ratios.
- The study provides insights into the trade-offs between blend composition, processing, and mechanical properties for potential film applications.
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