Controllable porous structure polylactide self-reinforced composites with a large processing temperature window

Polylactic acid (PLA) self-reinforced composites (SRCs) are potential alternatives to non-biodegradable plastic composites, but its narrow processing temperature window makes it difficult to manufacture. In this paper, PLA-SRCs with a processing temperature window of more than 50 °C were prepared by stereocomplexation of PLA. In addition, a novel and easy-to-handle solvent-induced interfacial modification of the fibres was developed in order to enhance the mechanical properties of PLA-SRCs. The method controllably generates a porous structure on the fibre surface, which greatly strengthens the interfacial bonding of the composites. After interfacial modification, the interfacial shear strength of PLA-SRCs was increased by almost 40 % while its tensile strength improved by more than 30 %, making this eco-friendly polymer system attractive to many modern industrial applications. • The stereocomplexation widen the processing temperature window of PLA self-reinforced composites. • Differences in the solubility parameters were exploited to form a controlled porous structure on PLA fibres. • The specific surface area of porous fibre were greatly improved, while maintaining most of the strength. • Porous fibres can enhance the interfacial strength and tensile strength of PLA self-reinforced composites.