Processability, morphology and thermal behavior of poly(lactic acid)/synthetic mica nanocomposites obtained by melt blending

Abstract

Poly(lactic acid)/synthetic mica nanocomposites were obtained by melt blending in an internal mixer in an investigation designed by experimental factorial planning. The results indicated that low speeds and temperatures favoured intercalation. In the range of concentrations tested (3–7 wt%), the added mica did not act as a nucleating agent, and it produced no significant change in the thermal properties of the poly(lactic acid). The thermogravimetric analyses suggested that temperatures below 190C and short mixing times (<10 min) promoted better dispersion of the synthetic mica in the matrix nanocomposite.