Structure and properties of PBST/ZrP nanocomposites under the influence of stretching-lamination force fields

Poly(butylene succinate-co-terephthalate) (PBST)/ layered zirconium phosphate (ZrP) composite was prepared by melt blending. The dispersion and orientation of ZrP within the PBST matrix were subsequently modified using a stretching-lamination post-treatment process. Effects of filler content and stretching ratio on the microstructure, rheological properties, thermal properties, mechanical properties, and barrier performance of the composites were investigated. Results showed that after post treatment, sliding occurred between the layers of ZrP, enhancing its dispersion within the PBST matrix and aligning it along the direction of the applied force. Furthermore, the degree of orientation increased with higher stretching ratios. In the stretching ratio of 300%, the intensity ratio of the crystal plane characteristic peaks (I(002)/I(100)) for the composite increased from 3.48 to 7.86. When the ZrP content was 3 wt% and the stretching ratio was 300%, compared with composite without post stretching, its tensile strength and elongation at break improved 10.7% and 14.4%, respectively. This study presents a novel solution to the dispersion challenges of nanofillers in composites from the perspective of processing methods, while also offering a solid foundation for the subsequent incorporation of nanocellulose to develop bio-based composites with higher mechanical strength and barrier properties.