Study on structure and properties of biodegradable PLA/PBAT/organic-modified MMT nanocomposites

Biodegradable polymer blends were prepared by melt blending poly(lactic acid) (PLA), poly(butylene adipate- co-terephthalate) (PBAT), and organic-modified montmorillonite (MMT). The effects of MMT on the structure, morphology, thermal, and mechanical properties of the blends were thoroughly investigated. The results revealed that MMT was preferable to localize on the interface of PLA and PBAT and esterification reaction took place between organic-modified MMT and PLA/PBAT. MMT enhanced the compatibility of PLA and PBAT, accelerated crystallization, and improved the thermal stability of PLA and PBAT. In addition, MMT illustrated the reinforcing effects on PLA and PBAT in their tensile strength, especially for PBAT.