Graphene-modified poly(lactic acid) for packaging: Material formulation, processing and performance

摘要

Manufacturing of plastics by compostable polymers is of crucial relevance to limit the environmental impact and reduce oil consumption. Performance of compostable polymers is often mediocre, although they could be improved by physical and chemical routes. In this work, Poly(Lactic Acid) (PLA) is modified for improved performance by two different routes: (1) by physically dispersing Graphene Nano-Platelets (GNP) in the organic matrix; (2) by the physical dispersion and covalent bonding of PLA and AminoFunctionalized Nano-Silica (A-fSiO(2)). Functionalization of the PLAs after compounding and pelletizing was assessed by combined Fourier Transform Infrared (FT-IR). In addition, thermal analysis was performed by Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC). Mechanical response was evaluated on compression molded flat slabs of the modified PLAs by Pencil and progressive and constant load scratch tests. Chemical endurance was evaluated on compression molded flat slabs of the modified PLAs by dipping in aggressive acidic, basic, and saline environments. Finally, the modified PLAs were successfully injection molded to manufacture high performance coffee capsules, whose thermal stability and suitability to coffee brewing were demonstrated. (C) 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.