Poly(2-ethyl-2-oxazoline) as β-Nucleating Agent for Poly(lactic acid) Blends with High Transparency and Hydrophilicity

This study aims to evaluate the effects of poly(2-ethyl-oxazoline) (PEOx) on the thermal properties, wettability, and optical properties of poly(lactic acid) (PLA). The PLA/PEOx blends (PEOx loading: 5 to 20 wt%) were prepared using the solvent casting method. Good interaction between PLA and PEOx was confirmed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and work of adhesion (determined from dynamic contact angle). The transparency of PLA was improved by the addition of PEOx. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) results proved that the PEOx induces the beta-crystals formation of PLA. The higher the loading of PEOx is, the higher the intensity of the beta-crystals formation. The transparent PLA/PEOx blends are suitable for packaging applications (both non-food and food packaging).

Automated summary

This study evaluates the effects of PEOx on the thermal properties, wettability, and optical properties of PLA, demonstrating that the addition of PEOx improves PLA's transparency and induces the formation of beta-crystals. The higher the loading of PEOx, the higher the intensity of beta-crystals formation, making the PLA/PEOx blends suitable for packaging applications.