The effect of modifiers on Poly (lactic acid) properties

Composites are made of a combination of two or more individual material, produced to increase the mechanical and physical performance of materials. Poly (lactic acid) (PLA) based composite has gained great interest due to its biocompatibility and biodegradability features. However, PLA has its limitations such as brittle behavior, narrow processing techniques, low heat distortion temperature, limited melt strength and poor thermal stability has brought into huge challenge for large-scale usage. To overcome these weaknesses modification of PLA need to be considered which include blending PLA with other polymers or fiber, usage of compatibilizers, additives, plasticizers and crosslinking agents. Modification by blending PLA with fiber is most favorable due to its variety of advantages. However, to obtain optimum compatibility between both PLA and fiber, some modification plus treatment need to be conducted. Thus, this article reviews the modification of PLA to produce high performance composite.