Handbook of Carbon-Based Filler(s) Reinforced PLA Biocomposites: Fundamentals to Applications

In the past, petroleum-based polymers were favoured because of low cost, better mechanical properties, and ease of production. The fast production of such polymers has a negative effect on the environment and the economy at large. As an example, the utilization of oil and gas has led to an increase in oil and natural gas prices. Therefore, there is a need for the production and development of biodegradable polymers for sustainable applications of plastics. The positive impact of biodegradable polymers is their ability to degrade in the natural environment. This book covers an in-depth discussion on the synthesis of polylactic acid (PLA) and its applications. Polylactic acid is fabricated from renewable sources such as corn, sorghum wheat and straw. However, there a need for high performance polymer materials in industrial applications, which prompted the researcher to produce biocomposites for advanced applications. In this book, carbon-based fillers incorporated in PLA matrix are discussed in relation to flame retardancy, mechanical properties, and thermal stability for the utilization of such composites in advanced applications. Cover Half Title Handbook of Carbon-Based Filler(s) Reinforced PLA Biocomposites: Fundamentals to Applications Copyright Contents Preface Acknowledgements 1. Carbon Based Fillers: Synthesis, Structure, and Properties Abstract 1.1. Introduction 1.2. Carbon-Based Nanoparticles 1.2.1. Carbon Nanotubes 1.2.1.1. Synthesis Route for Carbon Nanotubes and Their Morphology 1.2.2. Graphite 1.2.2.1. Graphene: Synthesis 1.3. Future Recommendations 1.4. Conclusion References 2. PLA Matrix: Synthesis Route, Structure, and Properties Abstract 2.1. Introduction 2.2. Methods of Obtaining Lactide 2.3. The Properties of the Lactide 2.4. Synthesis of PLA 2.5. Incorporation of Other Groups into PLA Matrix: Efforts to Functionalize PLA 2.6. Future Recommendations 2.7. Conclusion References 3. Preparation and Morphology of Carbon-Based Filler(s) Reinforced PLA Abstract 3.1. Introduction 3.2. Preparation of PLA/CBFs Composites 3.2.1. Melt-Blending 3.2.1.1. Melt-Mixer 3.2.1.2. Extrusion Method 3.2.1.3. Compression Moulding 3.2.2. Secondary Melt-Blending 3.2.2.1. 3D Printing 3.2.2.2. Melt-Spinning 3.2.3. Solution Mixing 3.2.4. In Situ Polymerization 3.3. Conclusion References 4. Thermal Stability of PLA/Carbon Based Filler(s) Composites Abstract 4.1. Introduction 4.2. Thermal Properties 4.2.1. CNTs-Based Composites 4.2.2. Graphene-Based PLA Composites 4.2.3. CB-Based Composites 4.3. Hybridization 4.4. Conclusion References 5. Flammability Properties of PLA/Carbon Based Filler(s) Composites Abstract 5.1. Introduction 5.2. Flammability Properties: Graphite and Its Derivates/PLA Based Nanocomposites 5.3. Flammability Properties: PLA/Carbon Nanotubes Composites 5.4. Future Recommendations 5.5. Conclusion References 6. Mechanical Properties of the PLA/ Carbon Based Fillers Composites Abstract 6.1. Introduction 6.2. Factors Affecting Mechanical Properties of PLA 6.3. Mechanical Properties of PLA-CBF Composites 6.3.1. Solution Mixing 6.3.2. Electrospinning 6.3.3. Melt-Compounding 6.3.4. Extrusion 6.3.5. Three-Dimensional (3D) Printing 6.3.6. Melt-Spinning 6.4. Hybridization 6.5. Conclusion References 7. Applications of PLA/Carbon Based Fillers Composites Abstract 7.1. Introduction 7.2. Applications of CBF-PLA Composites 7.2.1. Packaging 7.2.2. Healthcare Applications 7.2.2.1. Tissue Engineering 7.2.2.2. Mask 7.2.2.3. Medical Sutures 7.2.3. Sensing Applications 7.2.4. Oil-Water Separation 7.3. Conclusion References About the Authors Index Cover back