The effect of functionalized blending on the property tuning of PLA composites with micro- and nano- cellulose fibres

The use of polymer blends matrices in composite systems offers the opportunity to control processing, compatibility and phase dispersion of the components, widening the spectrum of properties and applications. We investigated the functional modification, melt processability and properties of blends of PLA with EVA or PVAc and their composites with both cellulose microfibers (CF) and cellulose nanocrystals (NC) [1, 2]. An advantageous approach to the preparation of PLA/NC and PLA/PVAc/NC nanocomposites has been developed, and the effect of different processing routes on their morphology, thermal and mechanical properties has been examined. Results obtained for PLA/EVA-GMA/CF composites have demonstrated that phase structure, crystallization behaviour and mechanical characteristics were influenced by the polymer-polymer miscibility, and varied with blend composition. The functionalization of PLA and NC by GMA grafting and the inclusion of NC in PVAc have been found to improve the dispersion of NC into the matrix, as well as the thermal stability and tensile behaviour of PLA/NC nanocomposites.