Polylactide films modified with glass microspheres - morphology and properties

The paper presents studies on the modification of polylactide (PLA) film with various amounts of glass microspheres (GMS). PLA films containing from 5 to 25 wt% GMS were prepared by cast film extrusion. Comparison of changes occurring in optical, mechanical, tribological and barrier properties as well as in structure of the modified films was the objective of the investigations carried out. It was found that the greatest changes were observed after adding the smallest amount of GMS (5 %) to PLA, while larger amounts of GMS changed the properties of the PLA films to a lesser extent. The modified PLA films showed less transparency, less gloss, and a dark color, as well as very good mechanical parameters . The studied films were also characterized by high roughness, good adhesion of the filler to the PLA matrix, slight anisotropy, and almost unaltered water vapor permeability. Therefore, these films can be valuable engineering materials in many applications, including packaging. • Glass microspheres significantly change the optical properties of PLA films. • A significant increase in PLA film roughness after adding GMS is observed. • Glass microspheres in the PLA matrix are characterized by good distribution. • PLA/GMS films can be valuable packaging materials.