Epoxidized Ionic Liquids as Processing Auxiliaries of Poly(Lactic Acid) Matrix: Influence on the Manufacture, Structural and Physical Properties

In this study, we set out to modify poly(lactic acid) (PLA) by incorporating epoxidized ionic liquids (ILs) that were specifically designed with imidazolium-NTf2 moieties. First, we synthesized di-, tri- and tetra-epoxidized ILs, which were incorporated into a PLA matrix at 3, 5, and 10 wt% through a melt extrusion process. We investigated the relationship between the structure and properties of the resulting materials in terms of thermal, mechanical, rheological, and surface properties. The results showed the potential of ILs to impact these properties. Notably, the tri- and tetra-epoxidized ILs enhanced the thermal stability of the PLA matrix as well as the crystallinity while reducing the glass transition temperature and melting point, which is promising for reactive extrusion processing. Overall, this research opens new routes for using reactive ILs to improve the processing and properties of PLA polymers.

Automated summary

In this study, we modified poly(lactic acid) (PLA) by adding epoxidized ionic liquids (ILs) with imidazolium-NTf2 moieties. The synthesis of di-, tri-, and tetra-epoxidized ILs was followed by their incorporation into a PLA matrix at different weight percentages. The relationship between the resulting materials' structure and properties was examined, revealing the potential of ILs to impact thermal, mechanical, rheological, and surface properties. Notably, the tri- and tetra-epoxidized ILs improved the thermal stability and crystallinity of PLA, while reducing the glass transition temperature and melting point, which suggests their potential for reactive extrusion processing.