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Poly(lactic acid)‐based nanocomposites
Author(s) -
Basu Arijit,
Nazarkovsky Michael,
Ghadi Rohan,
Khan Wahid,
Domb Abraham J.
Publication year - 2017
Publication title -
polymers for advanced technologies
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.61
H-Index - 90
eISSN - 1099-1581
pISSN - 1042-7147
DOI - 10.1002/pat.3985
Subject(s) - plasticizer , materials science , nanocomposite , fire retardant , environmentally friendly , polymer , lactic acid , transparency (behavior) , polymer science , composite material , computer science , ecology , genetics , computer security , bacteria , biology
Classic plastics accumulate in nature causing environmental pollution, yet as a counterbalance they benefit society in many ways. They are versatile, cost‐effective, and can be tailored to have desired properties. The global environment has led to the fabrication of commodity plastics from environmentally degradable polymers. Poly(lactic acid) (PLA) is the most promising among the environmentally friendly polymers available. PLA‐based plastics have mechanical, thermal, and transparency similar to traditional plastics, and they can be molded and fabricated using the same equipment and procedures. Their material properties are enhanced through nanocomposites, compatibilizers, plasticizers, and other fillers (flame retardant, ultraviolet filter, etc.). This review summarizes mass production techniques and property reinforcements (focusing on nanocomposites and plasticizers) for PLA‐based plastics for commodity use. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.