pps proceeding - Abstract Preview
pps proceeding
Symposium: G05 - Polymer blends and alloys
Oral Presentation
 
 

Evaluation of DCP impact on PLA/PBS blend properties using an industrial scale twin-screw extruder.

LOPEZ IVAN DARIO (1)*, CAMPUZANO JUAN FERNANDO (1), SERNA ALEJANDRO (1)

(1) ICIPC - ANTIOQUIA - Colombia

The effect of DCP on PLA/PBS blends using an industrial scale twin screw extruder is studied. Analysis of different PLA/PBS/DCP compositions was carried out based on a Design of Experiments (DOE). The individual and combined effect on properties of PBS and DCP content were compared. Tensile properties following ASTMD638-10 and impact properties at room and low temperatures were evaluated. The effect on processability was evaluated using a rotational rheometer. Transition temperatures and crystallization behavior were studied using a DSC. Folding-cutting test were performed on sheets in order to study the use of the compound in folding packaging applications. Poly-lactic acid (PLA) and Poly (Butylene Succinate) (PBS) are two of the most used biopolymers in the industry. PLA is a stiff material but it tends to be brittle and has a low melt strength. On the other hand, PBS has excellent impact and processing properties, but with higher cost. PLA/PBS blends have been widely studied in the literature, looking to match the advantages of each material. However, PLA and PBS are incompatible beyond 20 w.t% of PBS, presenting low impact resistance due phase separation and poor adhesion. Dicumyl peroxide (DCP) has been proposed by other authors as compatibilizer to enhance the mechanical properties of the final product, decreasing stiffness but significantly increasing the impact properties. In previous studies, PLA/PBS/DCP blends were obtained using mixing rheometers as an initial approach. However, blend properties may significantly differ depending on the compounding technique. The use of an industrial scale twin screw extruder is a closer approach to the final application. Additionally, a higher DCP content (higher than 0.5 w.t%) can be process with this technology, which is difficult in mixing rheometers. The results presented in this work are a good reference to match the best cost/benefit formulation depending on the required properties.