Micromorphology, mechanical, crystallization and permeability properties analysis of HA/PBAT/PLA (HA, hydroxyapatite; PBAT, poly(butylene adipate-co-butylene terephthalate); PLA, polylactide) degradability packaging films

In this study, the self-made nano-hydroxyapatite (HA) and poly(butylene adipate-co-butylene terephthalate) copolyesters (PBAT) were used as fillers, and composite films of HA/PLA (PLA, polylactide) and HA/PBAT/PLA systems were prepared. The micromorphology, mechanical properties, thermal properties, crystallinity, water vapor permeability and oxygen permeability of the composite films were studied. The results show that the self-made HA has a porous rod-like structure with a size of 30-50 nm. PBAT was dispersed uniformly in the HA/PLA matrix in the form of spherical particles and formed many pores and holes. The tensile strength, elongation at break and modulus of elasticity of HA/PLA composite films were increased by adding 10 wt% PBAT. The addition of HA and PBAT played a synergistic function in improving the crystallinity of the composite films. The water vapor and oxygen permeabilities of HA/PLA and HA/10%PBAT/PLA composite films can be regulated by adjusting the amount of HA. The results of this study indicate that composite films with higher water vapor and oxygen permeabilities exhibit great potential for applications in green packaging and fresh-keeping packaging. (c) 2019 Society of Chemical Industry