Composite Polymer Granules Based on Poly-ε-Caprolactone and Montmorillonite Prepared by Solution-Casting and Melt...

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Polymer Science
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Biodegradable polymers are crucial for sustainable materials.
• Polycaprolactone (PCL) is a widely studied biodegradable polyester.
• Incorporating nanofillers like montmorillonite (MMT) can enhance polymer properties.

Purpose of the Study:

• To prepare and characterize eco-friendly PCL/MMT composites.
• To investigate the effect of MMT content and preparation method on composite properties.
• To evaluate the biodegradation behavior of the prepared composites.

Main Methods:

• Composite granules prepared via solution-casting and melt extrusion.
• Physicochemical properties analyzed using FTIR, XRDA, DSC, and TGA.
• Biodegradation assessed by mass loss after soil exposure.

Main Results:

• Crystallinity of PCL/MMT composites increased with MMT content (up to 61-67%).
• Preparation method significantly impacted crystallinity and microstructure (intercalated vs. mixed).
• Solution-cast composites showed >90% mass loss, while extruded composites lost <60% in soil.

Conclusions:

• Melt extrusion produces intercalated PCL/MMT composites with controlled features.
• Solution-casting leads to microcomposite structures with enhanced biodegradability.
• MMT content and preparation method are key factors influencing PCL composite properties and degradation.