Preparation of Polylactide/Halloysite-Nanoclay/Polytetrafluoro-Ethylene Composite Foam and Study of Properties and Morphology
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Halloysite nanoclay (HNC) and as-polymerized polytetrafluoroethylene powder (PTFE) were introduced into biodegradable polylactic acid (PLA) via a melt mixing technique to enhance its mechanical, rheological properties and foaming ability. The synergetic effects of these fillers on the morphological, mechanical, thermal, and foaming properties of PLA were investigated. Results indicated that the tensile properties were improved in comparison to neat PLA. Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) revealed a decrease in PLA crystallization time with increasing filler concentration, indicating a strong nucleating effect on PLA crystallization. Extensional flow tests showed that strain hardening in PLA composites is influenced by fillers, with PTFE particularly exhibiting a more pronounced effect, attributed to nanofibrillation and entanglement during melt processing. The addition of a dual-filler system improved the melt strength and viscosity of PLA, resulting in foams with decreased cell size and increased cell density.
Source: Nanomaterials
DOI: 10.3390/nano15090667
Authors: Silla George Raju, Hanieh Kargarzadeh, Andrzej Galeski
Language: English
Subfield: Polymers and Plastics
Field: Materials Science
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $2,896
OpenAlex ID: W4410030969