MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF FIBRE/ FILLER BASED POLY(LACTIC ACID) (PLA) COMPOSITES: A BRIEF REVIEW

Abstract

Being a biodegradable polymer, poly(lactic acid) (PLA) based composites receive greater preference over non-biodegradable plastics. Poly(lactic acid) has to find its place in various applications such as polymer composites, agriculture, biomedical, etc. Polymer composites based on PLA possess comparable mechanical strength, endurance, flexibility and endures future opportunities. Several combinations of natural fibers and filler-based PLA composites have been fabricated and investigated for physical and mechanical changes. Moreover, several biopolymers and compatibilizers are added to PLA to provide rigidity. The paper presents a tabulated review of the various natural fiber/filter-based PLA composites and the preparation and outcomes. In addition, enhancement made by the reinforcement of nano filler in the PLA are also discussed in brief. The significance of PLA in the biomedical application has been discussed in brief. The paper also shed lights in the social and economic aspects of PLA.