The use of biopolymers can reduce the environmental impact generated by plastic materials. Among biopolymers, blends made of poly(lactide) (PLA) and poly(butylene-adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT) prove to have adequate performances for food packaging applications. Therefore, the present work deals with the production and the characterization of blown films based on PLA and PBAT blends in a wide range of compositions, in order to evaluate their suitability as chilled and frozen food packaging materials, thus extending their range of applications. The blends were fully characterized: they showed the typical two-phase structure, with a morphology varying from fibrillar to globular in accordance with their viscosity ratio. The increase of PBAT content in the blends led to a decrease of the barrier properties to oxygen and water vapor, and to an increase of the toughness of the films. The mechanical properties of the most ductile blends were also evaluated at 4 °C and &#;25 °C. The decrease in temperature caused an increase of the stiffness and a decrease of the ductility of the films to a different extent, depending upon the blend composition. The blend with 40% of PLA revealed to be a good candidate for chilled food packaging applications, while the blend with a PLA content of 20% revealed to be the best composition as frozen food packaging material.
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In recent years, the growing interest of the population towards environmental issues, and the increasingly stringent directives that various countries are adopting to fight against environmental pollution deriving from plastic materials, have directed research towards the development of ecofriendly materials that can substitute the conventional plastic ones [1]. The packaging sector is the one that uses the highest amount of plastic [2], and thus, the use of so-called &#;biopolymers&#; in the food packaging field could be a strategy to reduce the environmental impact generated by the traditional plastics materials [3]. Moreover, since a considerable amount of foods requires sub-ambient storage temperatures (e.g., chilled and frozen food), the retention of satisfactory performance properties at low temperatures has a key role to extending the range of applications of a material in the food packaging field.
Different examples can be found in literature on the effect of sub-ambient temperature upon the mechanical and barrier response of conventional polyolefin-based systems [4,5,6,7], since, currently, these are the most employed materials for low temperature packaging applications.
As a general trend, in terms of mechanical response, the temperature lowering gives a decrease in the material ductility and shock absorption power; instead, in terms of barrier properties, it gives a decrease of permeability to gases and a change in perm-selectivity. To our best knowledge, no literature data are available on the effect of sub-ambient temperatures on the functional performances of biopolymer-based packaging systems, and their applications for refrigerated food storage are still very limited.
Among the biopolymers, PLA is one of the most promising and widespread ones that can replace petrochemical plastics [8,9,10]. PLA is a compostable and bio-based polymer, it is a linear aliphatic polyester, and its properties can be turned varying the relative content of D- and L-enantiomers [11]. It can be easily processed with conventional process such as extrusion, spinning, injection and compression molding [12,13,14,15]. However, its high brittleness limits its use, thus different strategies are tested in order to improve its toughness [16,17,18,19]. Among them, blending of PLA with PBAT has shown promising results.
PBAT is a compostable aliphatic aromatic co-polyester that consists of two types of comonomer, a rigid butylene terephthalate segment made of 1.4 butanediol and terephthalic acid monomers, and a flexible butylene adipate section made of 1.4 butanediol and adipic acid monomers [20]. This polymer is flexible and tough, and it has complementary properties to PLA [21].
Several researchers have blended PLA with PBAT, through several techniques, like single-screw extrusion, twin-screw extrusion and solvent casting [20,22,23,24,25,26]. Results showed that, even if these polymers have very close solubility values [27], they are not thermodynamically miscible.
Li et al. [28] studied the morphology of this system in a wide range of compositions. They showed that for a PBAT content lower than 20 wt%, the blend surface appeared uniform, characterized by the presence of featured small droplets suspended in the continuous phase. When the PBAT content increased between 20 and 50 wt%, the system became heterogeneous, with a co-continuous phase structure formed at 50 wt%. Furthermore, when the PBAT content exceeded 70 wt%, the morphology turned into droplets. In addition, Deng at al. [29] investigated the morphology of these systems, and they found a fibrillar morphology with a co-continuous phase structure when the PBAT content was between 20 wt% and 40 wt%, and PLA dispersed particles in the PBAT matrix when the content of the latter polymer was between 60 wt% and 80 wt%.
However, even if these polymers are not miscible, their blending allows us to obtain several advantages. Hongdilokkul et al. [30] reported that the addition of 20 wt% of PBAT into the PLA matrix considerably improved the processability for film blowing by increasing the melt strength of the system. Moreover, the presence of PBAT influenced the crystallization behavior of PLA; in fact, it is reported that PBAT can act as a nucleating agent for PLA [30,31], increasing its crystallization rate.
Furthermore, several works deal with the mechanical properties of this system. Wang et al. [32] have melt blended PLA and PBAT, and showed that the brittleness and ductility of PLA could be improved by adding 10% PBAT, which increased the elongation at break from 7.71% to 357.8%, and decreased the tensile strength from 65.21 MPa to 47.52 MPa. Li et al. [33] have analyzed a wide range of the composition of PLA/PBAT blends, showing an increase of the elongation at break with the PBAT content in the blend, and a reduction of the elastic modulus that, in the blend with the 20% of PBAT, was decreased of more than 30% compared to the pure PLA. Farsetti et al. [34] made an impact analysis, and they reported an increase of the GIC (critical release rate of strain energy) value at compositions ranging from neat PLA down to PLA mass fraction equal to 0.8, due to a toughening effect of PBAT. In general, the addition of PBAT lead to an increase of the ductility, but to a decrease of the elastic modulus in the tensile strength of the blends.
Moreover, interesting results of these blends are reported also for the food packaging field. Tabasi et al. [35] reported that the sealability properties of PLA/PBAT blends can be tailored by varying the blend composition and PBAT crystallinity degree. Higher content of PLA in the blend and the lower crystallinity of PBAT provide lower hot-tack initiation temperature.
Li et al. [33] investigated the oxygen permeability of these blends in a wide range of compositions, and with the addition of the 0.15 wt% of a compatibilizer, they found that the oxygen permeability of PBAT was two times higher than PLA, and the permeability of the blends increased as the content of PBAT in the blend increased. Wang et al. [23] reported that the presence of PBAT can considerably improve the UV-screening properties compared to neat PLA and PLA/PBAT films, which proved to be effective in preventing the greening of fresh potatoes. Moreover, the high-water vapor permeability of these films can be useful to prevent fogging on the surface of packaging film, as revealed for fresh, green onions.
However, there is a lack of literature on the effect of the temperature on the mechanical properties of these systems. Only Gigante et al. [36] studied the effect of temperature on the fracture behavior of different PLA/PBAT blends, in which PLA was the matrix phase. By the estimation of the ductile-to-brittle transition temperature (DBTT), they highlighted that the ductile behavior for these blends appeared at temperatures higher than the PBAT glass transition temperature, and particularly, for the blends with a PBAT content between 15 wt% and 25 wt%, this happened around &#;23 °C.
Moreover, the decrease of the ductility is a problem particularly relevant for materials with low thickness, so for the flexible packaging. Thus, the knowledge of the mechanical behavior at low temperatures is essential information to evaluate the suitability for packaging foods requiring low storage temperatures.
Therefore, in this work, PLA/PBAT blown films in a wide range of compositions were developed and fully characterized, and the mechanical properties of the most ductile films were evaluated at three different temperatures (25 °C, 4 °C and &#;25 °C), in order to extend the range of application of these blends for chilled and/or frozen food flexible packaging.
PLA PBAT plastic is a relatively new type of biodegradable plastic that has garnered attention as an eco-friendly alternative to traditional plastics. PLA PBAT plastic is made from a combination of polylactic acid (PLA) and polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT), which are both derived from renewable resources, such as corn starch and sugarcane. This unique combination of materials results in a plastic that can break down naturally in the environment without leaving harmful residue.
One of the main advantages of PLA PBAT plastic is its ability to decompose in a relatively short amount of time. Unlike traditional plastics, which can take hundreds of years to break down, PLA PBAT plastic can decompose in as little as 180 days under the right conditions. This makes it an attractive option for businesses and consumers who are looking for ways to reduce their environmental impact. Additionally, PLA PBAT plastic does not release harmful chemicals when it decomposes, making Zinc oxide it a safer option for the environment and wildlife.
PLA PBAT plastic is a biodegradable and compostable material that has gained popularity in recent years due to its eco-friendliness. PLA PBAT plastic is made from a blend of polylactic acid (PLA) and polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT) and is known for its ability to biodegrade in a relatively short period of time.
PLA PBAT plastic is a versatile material that can be used in a variety of applications, including packaging, disposable cutlery, and food service items. It is also commonly used in 3D printing due to its ease of use and biodegradability.
One of the key benefits of PLA PBAT plastic is its biodegradability. When exposed to the right conditions, such as heat, moisture, and microorganisms, PLA PBAT plastic can break down into its natural components, which can then be absorbed by the environment without causing harm. This makes it a more sustainable alternative to traditional plastics, which can take hundreds of years to decompose.
In addition to its eco-friendliness, PLA PBAT plastic also offers good mechanical properties, such as strength and durability. It can also be easily colored and printed on, making it a popular choice for branding and marketing purposes.
Overall, PLA PBAT plastic is a promising material that offers a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to traditional plastics. As more companies and consumers become aware of its benefits, its use is likely to continue to grow in the coming years.
Polylactic acid (PLA) is a biodegradable thermoplastic aliphatic polyester that is derived from renewable resources such as corn starch, tapioca roots, or sugarcane. PLA is made up of lactic acid monomers, which can be produced by the fermentation of starches or sugars. The polymerization of lactic acid monomers results in the formation of a long chain polymer, which is then used to produce PLA plastic.
PLA has a high melting point of around 150°C and is known for its good mechanical properties, such as high tensile strength, stiffness, and impact resistance. It is also transparent and has good barrier properties against gases, water, and oils.
Polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT) is a biodegradable aliphatic-aromatic copolyester that is made up of four different monomers: adipic acid, terephthalic acid, 1,4-butanediol, and 1,4-butanediol. The copolymerization of these monomers results in a material that has good mechanical properties and is biodegradable.
PBAT has a lower melting point than PLA, around 120°C, and is known for its flexibility, toughness, and good elongation at break. PBAT is also transparent and has good barrier properties against gases, water, and oils.
In summary, PLA and PBAT are two biodegradable plastics that are commonly used in the production of sustainable packaging materials. PLA is made up of lactic acid monomers, while PBAT is a copolyester made up of four different monomers. Both materials have good mechanical properties and are transparent with good barrier properties.
PLA PBAT plastics are biodegradable and can be broken down by microorganisms in the environment. The biodegradation process occurs in several stages, starting with the hydrolysis of the polymer chains into smaller fragments. These fragments are then consumed by microorganisms, which break them down further into carbon dioxide, water, and other natural compounds. The rate of biodegradation depends on various factors, such as temperature, humidity, and the presence of microorganisms.
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Compared to conventional plastics, PLA PBAT plastics have a lower environmental impact. Conventional plastics take hundreds of years to decompose and can release harmful chemicals into the environment. In contrast, PLA PBAT plastics can biodegrade within a few months to a few years, depending on the conditions. Additionally, PLA PBAT plastics are made from renewable resources, such as corn starch and sugarcane, which reduces the reliance on fossil fuels.
A life cycle assessment (LCA) is a tool used to evaluate the environmental impact of a product throughout its entire life cycle. According to LCAs, PLA PBAT plastics have a lower carbon footprint compared to conventional plastics. This is due to the fact that PLA PBAT plastics require less energy to produce and emit fewer greenhouse gases during production. Additionally, the biodegradation of PLA PBAT plastics does not release harmful chemicals into the environment.
In conclusion, PLA PBAT plastics offer a more sustainable alternative to conventional plastics. They are biodegradable, made from renewable resources, and have a lower environmental impact. However, it is important to note that proper disposal and management of PLA PBAT plastics is still necessary to ensure their full environmental benefits.
PLA PBAT plastic is a biodegradable material that possesses several physical and mechanical properties that make it an attractive alternative to traditional plastics. Here are some of its notable properties:
Overall, PLA PBAT plastic is a versatile material that possesses several physical and mechanical properties that make it a promising alternative to traditional plastics. Its low melting point and high strength make it easy to process and suitable for a wide range of applications.
PLA PBAT plastic is becoming increasingly popular in the packaging industry due to its biodegradability and compostability. It is used in the production of various products such as bags, food containers, and packaging films. PLA PBAT plastic has the potential to replace traditional petroleum-based plastics, which take hundreds of years to decompose. The use of PLA PBAT plastic in the packaging industry is a step towards a more sustainable future.
PLA PBAT plastic is also used in the agricultural industry. It is used to produce mulch films, which are used to cover the soil around plants to prevent weed growth, retain moisture, and regulate soil temperature. The mulch films made of PLA PBAT plastic are biodegradable and compostable, making them an eco-friendly alternative to traditional petroleum-based mulch films. The use of PLA PBAT plastic in the agricultural industry is a step towards more sustainable farming practices.
PLA PBAT plastic is also used in the biomedical field. It is used to produce surgical sutures, drug delivery systems, and tissue engineering scaffolds. PLA PBAT plastic is biocompatible, meaning it does not cause any adverse reactions when it comes into contact with living tissue. It is also biodegradable, which means that it can be safely absorbed by the body over time. The use of PLA PBAT plastic in the biomedical field is a step towards more sustainable and biocompatible medical devices.
In conclusion, PLA PBAT plastic has a wide range of applications and uses, from the packaging industry to the biomedical field. Its biodegradability and compostability make it an eco-friendly alternative to traditional petroleum-based plastics. The use of PLA PBAT plastic is a step towards a more sustainable future.
Extrusion is a common method for manufacturing PLA PBAT plastic. This process involves melting the plastic pellets and pushing them through a die to create a specific shape or form. PLA PBAT plastic can be extruded into a wide range of shapes, including sheets, films, and fibers. The extrusion process can be divided into several stages, including feeding, melting, pumping, and shaping.
During the feeding stage, the plastic pellets are fed into the extruder. The pellets are then heated and melted in the barrel of the extruder. Once the plastic is melted, it is pumped through the die and shaped into the desired form. The extruded plastic is then cooled and solidified to create a finished product.
Blending is another important process used in the production of PLA PBAT plastic. This process involves mixing two or more polymers together to create a new material with specific properties. Blending can be done in several ways, including melt blending, solution blending, and solid-state blending.
Melt blending is the most common method for blending PLA PBAT plastic. This process involves melting the two polymers together in an extruder and mixing them thoroughly. The resulting blend is then cooled and solidified to create a new material with unique properties.
Solution blending involves dissolving the polymers in a solvent and then mixing them together. The solvent is then removed, leaving behind a blend of the two polymers. Solid-state blending involves mixing the two polymers together in a solid state, such as by grinding them together.
Overall, the production processes used for PLA PBAT plastic involve extrusion and blending techniques, which can be customized to create a range of different shapes and properties.
The demand for eco-friendly products has been increasing in recent years, and PLA PBAT plastic is no exception. This biodegradable plastic is made from renewable resources, making it an attractive option for environmentally conscious consumers. As a result, the market for PLA PBAT plastic is expected to grow significantly in the coming years.
According to a report by MarketsandMarkets, the global market for biodegradable plastics is projected to reach $6.12 billion by , with PLA PBAT plastics being one of the key drivers of this growth. The report cites the increasing demand for sustainable packaging as one of the main factors driving the market.
In addition to its environmental benefits, PLA PBAT plastics also offers economic advantages. The production of this plastic requires less energy than traditional plastics, which can result in lower production costs. Furthermore, as the demand for eco-friendly products continues to grow, companies that offer PLA PBAT plastics packaging may be able to charge a premium for their products.
Overall, the market trends and economic aspects of PLA PBAT plastics are promising. As consumers become more environmentally conscious and demand for sustainable products increases, the market for this biodegradable plastic is expected to grow. Additionally, the economic benefits of producing and using PLA PBAT plastics make it an attractive option for companies looking to reduce their environmental impact while also improving their bottom line.
PLA PBAT plastic is regulated by various governmental and non-governmental organizations to ensure its safety and environmental sustainability. The regulatory framework for PLA PBAT plastics varies from country to country.
In the United States, PLA PBAT plastic is regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in food packaging and containers. The FDA has established regulations and guidelines for the use of PLA PBAT plastics in food contact applications, including the types and levels of additives that can be used.
In Europe, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) regulates the use of PLA PBAT plastics in food contact materials. The EFSA has established specific migration limits for PLA PBAT plastics, which must not be exceeded in order to ensure the safety of the food in contact with the material.
In addition to governmental regulations, PLA PBAT plastic is also subject to various industry standards. The ASTM International, for example, has established standards for the testing and performance of PLA PBAT plastics, including its biodegradability and compostability.
Overall, the regulatory framework and standards for PLA PBAT plastics are designed to ensure its safety and environmental sustainability. By complying with these regulations and standards, manufacturers can ensure that their products are safe for use and do not harm the environment.
In recent years, there have been several technological advancements in the production and processing of PLA PBAT plastics. One notable development is the use of nanoclay as a filler material to enhance the mechanical properties of the plastic. This has led to the production of PLA PBAT composites with improved strength, stiffness, and thermal stability.
Another innovation is the use of biodegradable additives to accelerate the degradation of PLA PBAT plastics. These additives can be incorporated into the plastic during the manufacturing process to make it more environmentally friendly. Additionally, the use of 3D printing technology has opened up new possibilities for the production of complex shapes and structures using PLA PBAT plastics.
The future prospects for PLA PBAT plastics look promising, with several potential growth areas on the horizon. One such area is the development of new applications for the plastic, such as in the automotive and construction industries. As the demand for sustainable materials continues to grow, PLA PBAT plastics could become a viable alternative to traditional plastics in these industries.
Another potential growth area is the expansion of PLA PBAT plastics production capacity. As more companies invest in the production of biodegradable plastics, the cost of production is expected to decrease, making PLA PBAT plastics more accessible to a wider range of industries.
Overall, the innovations and future prospects for PLA PBAT plastics are exciting and promising. With continued research and development, this biodegradable plastic has the potential to become a key player in the sustainable materials industry.
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