Improving the Properties of Poly(lactic Acid) with Ethylene-Vinyl Acetate
Author Information
Author(s): Feng Ruiqi, Kugimoto Daisuke, Yamaguchi Masayuki
Primary Institution: Japan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology
Hypothesis
The addition of ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA) will enhance the rheological properties and crystallization behavior of poly(lactic acid) (PLA).
Conclusion
The study found that adding EVA significantly improved the mechanical toughness and processability of PLA, particularly in T-die extrusion.
Supporting Evidence
- The addition of EVA reduced the shear viscosity of PLA, making it easier to process.
- EVA provided strain hardening in the transient elongational viscosity, which helped reduce neck-in during T-die extrusion.
- Shear-induced crystallization of PLA was enhanced by the addition of EVA.
- The blend of PLA and EVA showed a sea-island structure, indicating immiscibility.
- High shear stress conditions led to significant changes in the rheological properties of the blend.
Takeaway
Adding a special plastic called EVA to another plastic called PLA makes it stronger and easier to work with when making things like films.
Methodology
The study involved mixing PLA and EVA, then testing their properties under various conditions including shear and elongational flow.
Limitations
The study did not detect PLA crystallization in the extruded films, which may limit the understanding of its full potential.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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