A comprehensive review on polylactic acid/lignin composites - Structure, synthesis, performance, compatibilization,...

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Polymer Science
• Biomass Utilization

Background:

• Plastic pollution is a significant global environmental issue due to the non-degradable nature of conventional plastics.
• Polylactic acid (PLA), a biodegradable polymer, presents a sustainable alternative but faces limitations in cost and properties.
• Lignin, a renewable biomass resource, is a potential low-cost filler for PLA composites.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review advancements in polylactic acid (PLA)/lignin composites.
• To explore compatibilization strategies for improving PLA and lignin integration.
• To discuss the impact of lignin on composite properties and potential applications.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of literature on PLA/lignin composites.
• Analysis of physical and chemical compatibilization techniques.
• Evaluation of structural characteristics, synthesis, and performance improvements.

Main Results:

• Poor compatibility between PLA and lignin is a key challenge.
• Compatibilization strategies significantly enhance the performance of PLA/lignin composites.
• Lignin incorporation offers potential for low-cost, high-performance, and multifunctional biodegradable materials.

Conclusions:

• PLA/lignin composites show promise for sustainable material development.
• Further research into compatibilization is crucial for industrial viability.
• These composites offer a pathway to reduce plastic pollution and utilize biomass resources effectively.