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This work investigates the effects of modification of polylactide (PLA) using dicumyl peroxide (DCP) as a crosslinker and Joncryl as a chain extender on boehmite distribution. The PLA/boehmite (PLA/BA) composites at various concentrations were prepared via a twin-screw extruder. Transmission electron microscopy showed more agglomerations of BA particles when Joncryl and DCP were added individually to the PLA matrix, with lesser agglomeration upon simultaneous addition of DCP and Joncryl, which led to an enhancement of 10.7% of the heat distortion temperature and 8.8% of the modulus. The existence of fine dispersed BA particles in the BA3 sample improved the cold crystallization by 4 °C. Moreover, the maximum reinforcing effect in increasing the storage modulus of the prepared system was observed upon concurrent addition of DCP and Joncryl, with minimum reinforcing effect upon individual addition of DCP and Joncryl. In general, a bio-based PLA composite base BA with enhanced properties was successfully prepared for various applications.

The present work investigates the distribution of nanoclay particles at the interface and their influence on the microstructure development and non-linear rheological properties of reactively processed biodegradable polylactide/poly(butylene succinate) blend nanocomposites. Two types of organoclays, one is more hydrophilic (Cloisite®30B (C30B)) and another one is more hydrophobic (BetsopaTM (BET)), were used at different concentrations. Surface and transmission electron microscopies were respectively used to study the blend morphology evolution and for probing the dispersion and distribution of nanoclay platelets within the blend matrix and at the interface. The results suggested that both organoclays tended to localize at the interface between the blend’s two phases and encapsulate the dispersed poly(butylene succinate) phase, thereby suppressing coalescence. Using small angle X-ray scattering the probability of finding neighboring nanoclay particles in the blend matrix was calculated using the Generalized Indirect Fourier Transformation technique. Fourier Transform-rheology was utilized for quantifying nonlinear rheological responses and for correlating the extent of dispersion as well as the blend morphological evolution, for different organoclay loadings. The rheological responses were in good agreement with the X-ray scattering and electron microscopic results. It was revealed that C30B nanoparticles were more efficient in stabilizing the morphologies by evenly distributing at the interface. Nonlinear coefficient from FT-rheology was found to be more pronounced in case of blends filled with C30B, indicating better dispersion of C30B compare with BET which was in agreement with the SAXS results.

The interest in designing new environmentally friendly materials has led to the development of biodegradable foams as a potential substitute to most currently used fossil fuel–derived polymer foams. Despite the possibility of developing biodegradable and environmentally friendly polymer foams, the challenge of foaming biopolymers still persists as they have very low melt strength and viscosity as well as low crystallisation kinetics. Studies have shown that the incorporation of cellulose nanostructure (CN) particles into biopolymers can enhance the foamability of these materials. In addition, the final properties and performance of the foamed products can be improved with the addition of these nanoparticles. They not only aid in foamability but also act as nucleating agents by controlling the morphological properties of the foamed material. Here, we provide a critical and accessible overview of the influence of CN particles on the properties of biodegradable foams; in particular, their rheological, thermal, mechanical, and flammability and thermal insulating properties and biodegradability.