Green composite from carbon dioxide-derived poly (propylene carbonate) and biodegradable poly (glycolic-co-lactic acid) fiber

Biodegradable poly(glycolic-co-lactic acid) (PGLA) fiber was used as a reinforcing agent, and sustainable composites based on poly(propylene carbonate) (PPC) were prepared by melting mixing. The morphology, mechanical properties, rheological properties, and heat resistance were investigated. SEM revealed the uniform distribution of fiber in PPC matrix and good interfacial adhesion between PPC and fibers. With the addition of PGLA fibers, PPC composites showed obviously improvement of storage modulus, yield strength, and tensile modulus, while the toughness was still retained at room temperature. However, neat PPC and the composites gradually transformed into a brittle material with decrease of temperature, but the strength and modulus were improved. Moreover, the melt strength of PPC composites was improved with the incorporation of fibers due to the restriction of the chain mobility of PPC by the network-like structure of fibers. Finally, the vicat softening temperature of the composites was improved because of incorporation of PGLA fibers.

Automated summary

Biodegradable PGLA fiber was used to reinforce sustainable composites based on PPC. The addition of PGLA fibers improved the mechanical properties and melt strength of PPC composites, while retaining its toughness at room temperature. However, the composites became brittle at lower temperatures. The incorporation of PGLA fibers also enhanced the interfacial adhesion between PPC and fibers and improved the vicat softening temperature of the composites.