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ARS Home » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #148742
Title: COMPATIBILTY IN POLYLACTIC ACID BASED BLENDS

Author
item Biresaw, Girma
item Carriere, Craig
item Willett, Julious

Submitted to: American Institute of Chemical Engineers
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: 11/21/2003
Publication Date: 11/21/2003
Citation: Biresaw, G., Carriere, C.J., Willett, J.L. 2003. Compatibilty in polylactic acid based blends. (Abstract) American Institute of Chemical Engineers. p.226.

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: Polylactic acid (PLA) is one of the most widely used biodegradable polyesters. PLA is blended with various forest and agricultural-based natural polymers for the development of biobased materials with improved water-resistance. PLA is also blended with synthetic polymers for the development of biocompatible and biodegradable blends for use in medical and other fields. Compatibility is one of the critical factors affecting the successful commercialization of PLA-based blends. One of the factors affecting compatibility is interfacial tension. In this work, the various factors affecting interfacial adhesion between PLA and polystyrene are investigated using an asymmetric double cantilever beam fracture test. The results are used to assess compatibility and interfacial tension in PLA-base blends.