Molecularly Engineered Lignin-Derived Additives Enable Fire-Retardant, UV-Shielding, and Mechanically Strong Polylactide Biocomposites

From a perspective of sustainable development and practical applications, there has been a great need for the design of advanced polylactide (PLA) biocomposites that are flame-retardant, ultraviolet (UV)-resistant, and mechanically strong by using biomass-derived additives. Unfortunately, the achievement of a desirable performance portfolio remains unsatisfactory because of improper design strategies. Herein, we report the design of lignin-derived multifunctional bioadditives (TP-g-lignin) with tunable chemical compositions through graft polymerization of a phosphorus-/nitrogen-containing vinyl monomer (TP). Our results show that the incorporation of 5.0 wt % of TP-g-lignin (at a lignin-to-TP ratio of 1:4 by mass) enables PLA to achieve a desirable flame retardancy rating meeting the UL-94 V-0 industrial standard requirements. Meanwhile, the final PLA composite exhibits an exceptional UV-shielding capability. Moreover, with 5.0 wt % of the bio-derived additive, the elastic modulus of PLA is increased by similar to 26%, while mechanical strength is fully retained due to engineered favorable interfaces. This work offers an innovative and sustainable strategy for creating bio-based multifunctional additives by using industrial lignin waste and further the application of PLA in the areas of packaging, fabrics, electronics, automobiles, etc.

Automated summary

This study successfully designed lignin-derived multifunctional bioadditives (TP-g-lignin) with tunable chemical compositions through graft polymerization, achieving a balanced combination of flame retardancy, UV resistance, and mechanical strength in PLA composites. The incorporation of 5.0 wt % of TP-g-lignin enabled PLA to meet the UL-94 V-0 industrial standard for flame retardancy, while also improving UV-shielding capability and increasing elastic modulus.