Modification of phbv-blends with a biodegradable plasticizer

Abstract

Plastics have become an indispensable part of modern life and due to their outstanding properties, they are used for a wide range of products in a great variety of industrial sectors. However, if plastics are not disposed properly and released into the environment, they become a global problem. Especially the high longevity and durability of plastics lead to undesirable accumulations in terrestrial and aquatic systems. Therefore, both seas and soils become final sinks. Because of that, the prevention of plastic waste in the environment must be highest priority. A solution is needed for those cases in which an entry into the environment cannot be avoided or recycling is not possible. Biodegradable plastics are a possible answer here. Especially, the biopolymer poly-3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate (PHBV) presents itself as a promising material, although its high brittleness causes some challenges. To address this issue, PHBV was blended with the biopolymer PBAT and a biodegradable plasticizer was added. While analyzing the rheological and mechanical properties, it was observed that with increasing PBAT and plasticizer concentration, both viscosity and Young's modulus decreased while the elongation at break and impact strength increased.