Enhancing PLA/PBAT blends properties with high epoxy-functional polymer as a compatibilizer

Abstract In this work, a novel functional polymer with an abundance of epoxy groups (SMG) was tested as a compatibilizer to improve the compatibility of polylactic acid/1,4-butanediol terpolymer (PLA/PBAT) blends. The effect of additive dosage on the morphology, crystallization, and mechanical properties of PLA/PBAT blends was thoroughly investigated. The results showed that as little as 0.3 wt% of SMG could significantly improve the processability, compatibility, and mechanical properties of PLA/PBAT blends. In addition, SMG can be effectively applied to different ratios of PLA/PBAT blends to improve compatibility through in-situ reactions, thereby improving the strength and toughness of the blends. This modification processing technology is expected to facilitate the development and industrialization of biodegradable plastic materials based on PLA/PBAT blends.