Modification of PLA

Abstract

PLA widely used in many fields has gained enormous attention because of its biodegradable and biocompatible properties. However, unitary structure and poor properties of PLA such as the inherent brittleness, poor melt strength, low heat deflection temperature (HDT), narrow processing window and low thermal stability have posed considerable scientific challenges and limited their large-scale applications. This section of the book aims at highlighting recent developments in modification of PLA including copolymerization, blending, compounding and additives to improve relevant properties of PLA.