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Shi C, Quinn EC, Diment WT, Chen EYX. Recyclable and (Bio)degradable Polyesters in a Circular Plastics Economy. Chem Rev 2024; 124:4393-4478. [PMID: 38518259 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.3c00848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/24/2024]
Abstract
Polyesters carrying polar main-chain ester linkages exhibit distinct material properties for diverse applications and thus play an important role in today's plastics economy. It is anticipated that they will play an even greater role in tomorrow's circular plastics economy that focuses on sustainability, thanks to the abundant availability of their biosourced building blocks and the presence of the main-chain ester bonds that can be chemically or biologically cleaved on demand by multiple methods and thus bring about more desired end-of-life plastic waste management options. Because of this potential and promise, there have been intense research activities directed at addressing recycling, upcycling or biodegradation of existing legacy polyesters, designing their biorenewable alternatives, and redesigning future polyesters with intrinsic chemical recyclability and tailored performance that can rival today's commodity plastics that are either petroleum based and/or hard to recycle. This review captures these exciting recent developments and outlines future challenges and opportunities. Case studies on the legacy polyesters, poly(lactic acid), poly(3-hydroxyalkanoate)s, poly(ethylene terephthalate), poly(butylene succinate), and poly(butylene-adipate terephthalate), are presented, and emerging chemically recyclable polyesters are comprehensively reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Changxia Shi
- Department of Chemistry, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado 80523, United States
| | - Ethan C Quinn
- Department of Chemistry, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado 80523, United States
| | - Wilfred T Diment
- Department of Chemistry, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado 80523, United States
| | - Eugene Y-X Chen
- Department of Chemistry, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado 80523, United States
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2
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Ben Amor I, Klinkova O, Baklouti M, Elleuch R, Tawfiq I. Mechanical Recycling and Its Effects on the Physical and Mechanical Properties of Polyamides. Polymers (Basel) 2023; 15:4561. [PMID: 38231968 PMCID: PMC10708457 DOI: 10.3390/polym15234561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2023] [Revised: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2024] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study is to investigate the impact of mechanical recycling on the physical and mechanical properties of recycled polyamide 6 (PA6) and polyamide 66 (PA66) in relation to their microstructures. Both PA6 and PA66 raw materials were reprocessed six times, and the changes in their properties were investigated as a function of recycling number. Until the sixth round of recycling, slight changes in the mechanical properties were detected, except for the percentage of elongation. For the physical properties, the change in both flexural strength and Young's modulus followed a decreasing trend, while the trend in terms of elongation showed an increase. Microscopic analysis was performed on virgin and recycled specimens, showing that imperfections in the crystalline regions of polyamide 6 increased as the number of cycles increased.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ichrak Ben Amor
- Laboratoire QUARTZ EA7393, ISAE-Supméca Institut Supérieur de Mécanique de Paris, 93400 Saint-Ouen, France; (I.B.A.); (I.T.)
- Laboratoire des Systèmes Electromécaniques (LASEM), Ecole Nationale d’ingénieurs de Sfax, Sfax 3038, Tunisia; (M.B.); (R.E.)
| | - Olga Klinkova
- Laboratoire QUARTZ EA7393, ISAE-Supméca Institut Supérieur de Mécanique de Paris, 93400 Saint-Ouen, France; (I.B.A.); (I.T.)
| | - Mouna Baklouti
- Laboratoire des Systèmes Electromécaniques (LASEM), Ecole Nationale d’ingénieurs de Sfax, Sfax 3038, Tunisia; (M.B.); (R.E.)
- Faculté des Sciences de Gafsa, Université de Gafsa, Gafsa 2112, Tunisia
| | - Riadh Elleuch
- Laboratoire des Systèmes Electromécaniques (LASEM), Ecole Nationale d’ingénieurs de Sfax, Sfax 3038, Tunisia; (M.B.); (R.E.)
| | - Imad Tawfiq
- Laboratoire QUARTZ EA7393, ISAE-Supméca Institut Supérieur de Mécanique de Paris, 93400 Saint-Ouen, France; (I.B.A.); (I.T.)
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Cicogna F, Passaglia E, Telleschi A, Oberhauser W, Coltelli MB, Panariello L, Gigante V, Coiai S. New Functional Bionanocomposites by Combining Hybrid Host-Guest Systems with a Fully Biobased Poly(lactic acid)/Poly(butylene succinate-co-adipate) (PLA/PBSA) Binary Blend. J Funct Biomater 2023; 14:549. [PMID: 37998118 PMCID: PMC10672472 DOI: 10.3390/jfb14110549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2023] [Revised: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
In this study, we have developed innovative polymer nanocomposites by integrating magnesium-aluminum layered double hydroxide (LDH)-based nanocarriers modified with functional molecules into a fully biobased poly(lactic acid)/poly(butylene succinate-co-adipate) (PLA/PBSA) matrix. These LDH-based hybrid host-guest systems contain bioactive compounds like rosmarinic acid, ferulic acid, and glycyrrhetinic acid, known for their antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties. The bioactive molecules can be gradually released from the nanocarriers over time, allowing for sustained and controlled delivery in various applications, such as active packaging or cosmetics. The morphological analysis of the polymer composites, prepared using a discontinuous mechanical mixer, revealed the presence of macroaggregates and nano-lamellae at the polymer interface. This resulted in an enhanced water vapor permeability compared to the original blend. Furthermore, the migration kinetics of active molecules from the thin films confirmed a controlled release mechanism based on their immobilization within the lamellar system. Scaling-up experiments evaluated the materials' morphology and mechanical and thermal properties. Remarkably, stretching deformation and a higher shear rate during the mixing process enhanced the dispersion and distribution of the nanocarriers, as confirmed by the favorable mechanical properties of the materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Cicogna
- National Research Council-Institute for the Chemistry of OrganoMetallic Compounds (CNR-ICCOM), SS Pisa, Via Moruzzi 1, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (E.P.); (A.T.)
| | - Elisa Passaglia
- National Research Council-Institute for the Chemistry of OrganoMetallic Compounds (CNR-ICCOM), SS Pisa, Via Moruzzi 1, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (E.P.); (A.T.)
| | - Alice Telleschi
- National Research Council-Institute for the Chemistry of OrganoMetallic Compounds (CNR-ICCOM), SS Pisa, Via Moruzzi 1, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (E.P.); (A.T.)
| | - Werner Oberhauser
- National Research Council-Institute for the Chemistry of OrganoMetallic Compounds (CNR-ICCOM), Via Madonna del Piano 10, 50019 Sesto Fiorentino, Italy;
| | - Maria-Beatrice Coltelli
- Department of Civil and Industrial Engineering, University of Pisa, Largo L. Lazzarino 1, 56122 Pisa, Italy; (M.-B.C.); (L.P.); (V.G.)
| | - Luca Panariello
- Department of Civil and Industrial Engineering, University of Pisa, Largo L. Lazzarino 1, 56122 Pisa, Italy; (M.-B.C.); (L.P.); (V.G.)
| | - Vito Gigante
- Department of Civil and Industrial Engineering, University of Pisa, Largo L. Lazzarino 1, 56122 Pisa, Italy; (M.-B.C.); (L.P.); (V.G.)
| | - Serena Coiai
- National Research Council-Institute for the Chemistry of OrganoMetallic Compounds (CNR-ICCOM), SS Pisa, Via Moruzzi 1, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (E.P.); (A.T.)
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4
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Jones H, McClements J, Ray D, Hindle CS, Kalloudis M, Koutsos V. Thermomechanical Properties of Virgin and Recycled Polypropylene-High-Density Polyethylene Blends. Polymers (Basel) 2023; 15:4200. [PMID: 37959880 PMCID: PMC10647352 DOI: 10.3390/polym15214200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
This paper provides evidence and discusses the variability in the thermomechanical behaviour of virgin and recycled polypropylene/high-density polyethylene blends without the addition of other components, which is sparse in the literature. Understanding the performance variability in recycled polymer blends is of critical importance in order to facilitate the re-entering of recycled materials to the consumer market and, thus, contribute towards a circular economy. This is an area that requires further research due to the inhomogeneity of recycled materials. Therefore, the thermal and mechanical properties of virgin and recycled polypropylene/high-density polyethylene blends were investigated systematically. Differential scanning calorimetry concludes that both the recycled and virgin blends are immiscible. Generally, recycled blends have lower overall crystallinity and melting temperatures compared with virgin blends while, remarkably, their crystallisation temperatures are compared favourably. Dynamical mechanical analysis showed little variation in the storage modulus of recycled and virgin blends. However, the alpha and beta relaxation temperatures are lower in recycled blends due to structural deterioration. Deterioration in the thermal and mechanical properties of recycled blends is thought to be caused by the presence of contaminants and structural degradation during reprocessing, resulting in shorter polymeric chains and the formation of imperfect crystallites. The tensile properties of recycled blends are also affected by the recycling process. The Young's modulus and yield strength of the recycled blends are inferior to those of virgin blends due to the deterioration during the recycling process. However, the elongation at break of the recycled blends is higher compared with the virgin blends, possibly due to the plasticity effect of the low-molecular-weight chain fragments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Jones
- School of Engineering, Institute for Materials and Processes, The University of Edinburgh, Sanderson Building, King’s Buildings, Edinburgh EH9 3FB, UK
| | - Jake McClements
- School of Engineering, Newcastle University, Merz Court, Claremont Road, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 7RU, UK
| | - Dipa Ray
- School of Engineering, Institute for Materials and Processes, The University of Edinburgh, Sanderson Building, King’s Buildings, Edinburgh EH9 3FB, UK
| | - Colin S. Hindle
- School of Engineering and The Built Environment, Edinburgh Napier University, Merchiston Campus, 10 Colinton Road, Edinburgh EH10 5DT, UK
| | - Michail Kalloudis
- Impact Laboratories Ltd. (Impact Solutions), Impact Technology Centre, Fraser Road, Kirkton Campus, Livingston EH54 7BU, UK
| | - Vasileios Koutsos
- School of Engineering, Institute for Materials and Processes, The University of Edinburgh, Sanderson Building, King’s Buildings, Edinburgh EH9 3FB, UK
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Bartolucci L, Cordiner S, De Maina E, Kumar G, Mele P, Mulone V, Igliński B, Piechota G. Sustainable Valorization of Bioplastic Waste: A Review on Effective Recycling Routes for the Most Widely Used Biopolymers. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24097696. [PMID: 37175402 PMCID: PMC10178466 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24097696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Revised: 04/15/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Plastics-based materials have a high carbon footprint, and their disposal is a considerable problem for the environment. Biodegradable bioplastics represent an alternative on which most countries have focused their attention to replace of conventional plastics in various sectors, among which food packaging is the most significant one. The evaluation of the optimal end-of-life process for bioplastic waste is of great importance for their sustainable use. In this review, the advantages and limits of different waste management routes-biodegradation, mechanical recycling and thermal degradation processes-are presented for the most common categories of biopolymers on the market, including starch-based bioplastics, PLA and PBAT. The analysis outlines that starch-based bioplastics, unless blended with other biopolymers, exhibit good biodegradation rates and are suitable for disposal by composting, while PLA and PBAT are incompatible with this process and require alternative strategies. The thermal degradation process is very promising for chemical recycling, enabling building blocks and the recovery of valuable chemicals from bioplastic waste, according to the principles of a sustainable and circular economy. Nevertheless, only a few articles have focused on this recycling process, highlighting the need for research to fully exploit the potentiality of this waste management route.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorenzo Bartolucci
- Industrial Engineering Department, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via del Politecnico 1, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Stefano Cordiner
- Industrial Engineering Department, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via del Politecnico 1, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Emanuele De Maina
- Industrial Engineering Department, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via del Politecnico 1, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Gopalakrishnan Kumar
- Institute of Chemistry, Bioscience and Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Stavanger, 4036 Stavanger, Norway
| | - Pietro Mele
- Industrial Engineering Department, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via del Politecnico 1, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Mulone
- Industrial Engineering Department, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via del Politecnico 1, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Bartłomiej Igliński
- Faculty of Chemistry, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń, Gagarina 7, 87-100 Toruń, Poland
| | - Grzegorz Piechota
- GPCHEM, Laboratory of Biogas Research and Analysis, Legionów 40a/3, 87-100 Toruń, Poland
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Kumar R, Sadeghi K, Jang J, Seo J. Mechanical, chemical, and bio-recycling of biodegradable plastics: A review. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 882:163446. [PMID: 37075991 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.163446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Revised: 04/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/07/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
The extensive use of petroleum-based non-biodegradable plastics for various applications has led to global concerns regarding the severe environmental issues associated with them. However, biodegradable plastics are emerging as green alternatives to petroleum-based non-biodegradable plastics. Biodegradable plastics, which include bio-based and petroleum-based biodegradable polymers, exhibit advantageous properties such as renewability, biocompatibility, and non-toxicity. Furthermore, certain biodegradable plastics are compatible with existing recycling streams intended for conventional plastics and are biodegradable in controlled and/or predicted environments. Recycling biodegradable plastics before their end-of-life (EOL) degradation further enhances their sustainability and reduces their carbon footprint. Since the production of biodegradable plastic is increasing and these materials will coexist with conventional plastics for many years to come, it is essential to identify the optimal recycling options for each of the most prevalent biodegradable plastics. The substitution of virgin biodegradable plastics by their recyclates leads to higher savings in the primary energy demand and reduces global warming impact. This review covers the current state of the mechanical, chemical, and bio-recycling of post-industrial and post-consumer waste of biodegradable plastics and their related composites. The effects of recycling on the chemical structure and thermomechanical properties of biodegradable plastics are also reported. Additionally, the improvement of biodegradable plastics by blending them with other polymers and nanoparticles is comprehensively discussed. Finally, the status of bioplastic usage, life cycle assessment, EOL management, bioplastic market, and the challenges associated with the recyclability of biodegradable plastics are addressed. This review gives comprehensive insights into the recycling processes that may be employed for the recycling of biodegradable plastics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ritesh Kumar
- Department of Packaging, Yonsei University, 1 Yonseidae-gil, Wonju-si, Gangwon-do 26493, South Korea
| | - Kambiz Sadeghi
- Department of Packaging, Yonsei University, 1 Yonseidae-gil, Wonju-si, Gangwon-do 26493, South Korea
| | - Jaeyoung Jang
- Department of Packaging, Yonsei University, 1 Yonseidae-gil, Wonju-si, Gangwon-do 26493, South Korea
| | - Jongchul Seo
- Department of Packaging, Yonsei University, 1 Yonseidae-gil, Wonju-si, Gangwon-do 26493, South Korea.
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Toward the Decarbonization of Plastic: Monopolymer Blend of Virgin and Recycled Bio-Based, Biodegradable Polymer. Polymers (Basel) 2022; 14:polym14245362. [PMID: 36559728 PMCID: PMC9784165 DOI: 10.3390/polym14245362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2022] [Revised: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Decarbonization of plastics is based on two main pillars: bio-based polymers and recycling. Mechanical recycling of biodegradable polymers could improve the social, economic and environmental impact of the use of these materials. In this regard, the aim of this study was to investigate whether concentrations of the same recycled biopolymer could significantly affect the rheological and mechanical properties of biodegradable monopolymer blends. Monopolymer blends are blends made of the same polymers, virgin and recycled. A sample of commercially available biodegradable blend was reprocessed in a single-screw extruder until two extrusion cycles were completed. These samples were exposed to grinding and melt reprocessed with 75% and 90% of the same virgin polymer. The blends were characterized by tensile tests and rheological tests. The results obtained showed that while multiple extrusions affected the mechanical and rheological properties of the polymer, the concentration of the reprocessed material present in the blends only very slightly affected the properties of the virgin material. In addition, the experimentally observed trends were accurately predicted by the additive model adopted.
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8
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Wang A, Chang Q, Chen C, Zhong X, Yuan K, Yang M, Wu W. Degradation characteristics of biodegradable film and its effects on soil nutrients in tillage layer, growth and development of taro and yield formation. AMB Express 2022; 12:81. [PMID: 35732981 PMCID: PMC9218028 DOI: 10.1186/s13568-022-01420-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
This study investigated the degradation characteristics of different biodegradable film and its effects on soil nutrients in tillage layer, growth and development of taro and yield formation. Field experiment with biodegradable films, including poly-(butylene adipate-co-butylene terephthalate) PBAT, (poly-carbon dioxide) PCO2, (poly propylene carbonate) PPC, as well as common mulch film (CK1) and uncovered mulch film (CK2) were conducted on Longxiang taro in 2020 and 2021 respectively. The degradation rate of the three biodegradable films was PBAT > PPC > PCO2. Compared with CK1, the alkali-hydrolyzed N of PBAT at the growth stage and fruiting stage significantly increased in 2020 and 2021, respectively (both, P < 0.05). The average content of available P of PPC at seedling stage was higher than that in PCO2, and CK1 was significantly decreased compared with that in CK2 (all, P < 0.05). The content of soil available K and organic matter in different growth stages of taro in all film mulching treatments were decreased in comparison to CK2. Moreover, compared with CK2, PCO2 biodegradable film significantly increased plant height at seedling and growth stage, stem diameter at growth stage, and leaf area index at fruiting stage (all, P < 0.05). Similarly, the yield of mother and filial bulbs of PPC, PCO2 and PBAT were significantly higher than those of CK2 in 2020 and 2021, respectively (all, P < 0.05). However, no significant differences were found in starch, polysaccharide and protein contents among different treatments. The three biodegradable films, especially PCO2, can significantly affect soil nutrient content, promote plant growth and improve taro yield.
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Affiliation(s)
- An Wang
- Special Grain Classics Laboratory, Taizhou Institute of Agricultural Science, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, 56 Autumn Snow Lake Avenue, Taizhou, 225300, China
| | - Qingtao Chang
- Special Grain Classics Laboratory, Taizhou Institute of Agricultural Science, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, 56 Autumn Snow Lake Avenue, Taizhou, 225300, China
| | - Chunsheng Chen
- Department of Vegetable, Xinghua Modern Agriculture Development Service Center, Taizhou, 225700, China
| | - Xiaoquan Zhong
- Department of Vegetable, Xinghua Modern Agriculture Development Service Center, Taizhou, 225700, China
| | - Kexiang Yuan
- Department of Vegetable, Xinghua Modern Agriculture Development Service Center, Taizhou, 225700, China
| | - Meihua Yang
- Xinghua Meihua Vegetable Planting Cooperative, Taizhou, 225700, China
| | - Wei Wu
- Special Grain Classics Laboratory, Taizhou Institute of Agricultural Science, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, 56 Autumn Snow Lake Avenue, Taizhou, 225300, China.
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Ceraulo M, La Mantia FP, Mistretta MC, Titone V. The Use of Waste Hazelnut Shells as a Reinforcement in the Development of Green Biocomposites. Polymers (Basel) 2022; 14:polym14112151. [PMID: 35683824 PMCID: PMC9182734 DOI: 10.3390/polym14112151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2022] [Revised: 05/11/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Biodegradable Mater-Bi (MB) composites reinforced with hazelnut shell (HS) powder were prepared in a co-rotating twin-screw extruder followed by compression molding and injection molding. The effects of reinforcement on the morphology, static and dynamic mechanical properties, and thermal and rheological properties of MB/HS biocomposites were studied. Rheological tests showed that the incorporation of HS significantly increased the viscosity of composites with non-Newtonian behavior at low frequencies. On the other hand, a scanning electron microscope (SEM) examination revealed poor interfacial adhesion between the matrix and the filler. The thermal property results indicated that HS could act as a nucleating agent to promote the crystallization properties of biocomposites. Furthermore, the experimental results indicated that the addition of HS led to a significant improvement in the thermomechanical stability of the composites. This paper demonstrates that the incorporation of a low-cost waste product, such as hazelnut shells, is a practical way to produce low-cost biocomposites with good properties. With a content of HS of 10%, a remarkable improvement in the elastic modulus and impact strength was observed in both compression and injection-molded samples. With a higher content of HS, however, the processability in injection molding was strongly worsened.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuela Ceraulo
- Department of Engineering, University of Palermo, VialedelleScienze, 90128 Palermo, Italy; (F.P.L.M.); (M.C.M.); (V.T.)
- INSTM, Consortium for Materials Science and Technology, Via Giusti 9, 50125 Florence, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Francesco Paolo La Mantia
- Department of Engineering, University of Palermo, VialedelleScienze, 90128 Palermo, Italy; (F.P.L.M.); (M.C.M.); (V.T.)
- INSTM, Consortium for Materials Science and Technology, Via Giusti 9, 50125 Florence, Italy
| | - Maria Chiara Mistretta
- Department of Engineering, University of Palermo, VialedelleScienze, 90128 Palermo, Italy; (F.P.L.M.); (M.C.M.); (V.T.)
| | - Vincenzo Titone
- Department of Engineering, University of Palermo, VialedelleScienze, 90128 Palermo, Italy; (F.P.L.M.); (M.C.M.); (V.T.)
- Irritec S.p.A., Via Industriale sn, 98070 Rocca di Caprileone, Italy
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10
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Liu W, Huang N, Yang J, Peng L, Li J, Chen W. Characterization and application of porous polylactic acid films prepared by nonsolvent-induced phase separation method. Food Chem 2022; 373:131525. [PMID: 34774380 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2021.131525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2021] [Revised: 11/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Nonsolvent-induced phase separation (NIPS) method was employed to prepare polylactic acid (PLA) films using N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP) as a nonsolvent. The morphology and structure of PLA films were characterized, and the application of the films in pork preservation was investigated. When 10 wt% NMP was added, film with uniform porous structures was obtained. The crystalline and Fourier-transform infrared spectra analyses indicated that the addition of NMP during the preparation of PLA films caused their crystalline properties to change, but had no effect on their composition. However, the 10 wt% NMP/PLA film had improved thermal stability, water vapor transmission and oxygen permeability. The results on the changes in pH, total volatile basic nitrogen content and total viable counts of pork during refrigerated storage indicated that the 10 wt% NMP/PLA film could more effectively extend the shelf life of pork than polyethylene film. This work demonstrates the potential of the porous PLA film in pork packaging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenlong Liu
- Sichuan Key Laboratory of Meat Processing, Chengdu University, Chengdu 610106, China
| | - Nanlan Huang
- Sichuan Key Laboratory of Meat Processing, Chengdu University, Chengdu 610106, China
| | - Junjie Yang
- Sichuan Key Laboratory of Meat Processing, Chengdu University, Chengdu 610106, China
| | - Lianxin Peng
- Key Laboratory of Coarse Cereal Processing of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Chengdu University, Chengdu 610106, China
| | - Jing Li
- College of Food and Biological Engineering, Chengdu University, Chengdu 610106, China
| | - Weijun Chen
- Sichuan Key Laboratory of Meat Processing, Chengdu University, Chengdu 610106, China; College of Food and Biological Engineering, Chengdu University, Chengdu 610106, China.
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11
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Azevedo JVC, Dorp ERV, Hausnerova B, Möginger B. The Effects of Chain-Extending Cross-Linkers on the Mechanical and Thermal Properties of Poly(butylene adipate terephthalate)/Poly(lactic acid) Blown Films. Polymers (Basel) 2021; 13:3092. [PMID: 34577992 PMCID: PMC8472475 DOI: 10.3390/polym13183092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2021] [Revised: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
This study investigates the effects of four multifunctional chain-extending cross-linkers (CECL) on the processability, mechanical performance, and structure of polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT) and polylactic acid (PLA) blends produced using film blowing technology. The newly developed reference compound (M·VERA® B5029) and the CECL modified blends are characterized with respect to the initial properties and the corresponding properties after aging at 50 °C for 1 and 2 months. The tensile strength, seal strength, and melt volume rate (MVR) are markedly changed after thermal aging, whereas the storage modulus, elongation at the break, and tear resistance remain constant. The degradation of the polymer chains and crosslinking with increased and decreased MVR, respectively, is examined thoroughly with differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), with the results indicating that the CECL-modified blends do not generally endure thermo-oxidation over time. Further, DSC measurements of 25 µm and 100 µm films reveal that film blowing pronouncedly changes the structures of the compounds. These findings are also confirmed by dynamic mechanical analysis, with the conclusion that tris(2,4-di-tert-butylphenyl)phosphite barely affects the glass transition temperature, while with the other changes in CECL are seen. Cross-linking is found for aromatic polycarbodiimide and poly(4,4-dicyclohexylmethanecarbodiimide) CECL after melting of granules and films, although overall the most synergetic effect of the CECL is shown by 1,3-phenylenebisoxazoline.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliana V. C. Azevedo
- Faculty of Technology, Tomas Bata University in Zlin, Vavreckova 275, 760 01 Zlin, Czech Republic;
- Department of Natural Sciences, University of Applied Sciences Bonn-Rhein-Sieg, von Liebig Str. 20, 53359 Rheinbach, Germany; (E.R.-v.D.); (B.M.)
- BIO-FED, Branch of AKRO-PLASTIC GmbH, BioCampus Cologne, Nattermannallee 1, 50829 Köln, Germany
- Centre of Polymer Systems, University Institute, Tomas Bata University in Zlin, Nam. T.G. Masaryka 5555, 760 01 Zlin, Czech Republic
| | - Esther Ramakers-van Dorp
- Department of Natural Sciences, University of Applied Sciences Bonn-Rhein-Sieg, von Liebig Str. 20, 53359 Rheinbach, Germany; (E.R.-v.D.); (B.M.)
| | - Berenika Hausnerova
- Faculty of Technology, Tomas Bata University in Zlin, Vavreckova 275, 760 01 Zlin, Czech Republic;
- Centre of Polymer Systems, University Institute, Tomas Bata University in Zlin, Nam. T.G. Masaryka 5555, 760 01 Zlin, Czech Republic
| | - Bernhard Möginger
- Department of Natural Sciences, University of Applied Sciences Bonn-Rhein-Sieg, von Liebig Str. 20, 53359 Rheinbach, Germany; (E.R.-v.D.); (B.M.)
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Titone V, Mistretta MC, Botta L, Mantia FPL. Investigation on the Properties and on the Photo-Oxidation Behaviour of Polypropylene/Fumed Silica Nanocomposites. Polymers (Basel) 2021; 13:polym13162673. [PMID: 34451213 PMCID: PMC8399021 DOI: 10.3390/polym13162673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Revised: 08/05/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
This work investigates the effects of very small amounts of fumed silica on the morphology and on the rheological and mechanical behaviour of polypropylene nanocomposites and on their photo-oxidation behaviour. Polypropylene nanocomposites were prepared using a twin-screw corotating extruder with 0, 1 and 2 wt/wt% of SiO2. Morphological, mechanical, thermomechanical and rheological properties were examined. It was found that the viscosity of the matrix is reduced by the presence of the silica nanoparticles, suggesting a poor adhesion between the two phases and probably some lubricating effect. On the contrary, the mechanical and, in particular, the thermomechanical properties of the matrix are considerably improved by the presence of the silica. In particular, elastic modulus and tensile strength increases remarkably, and this effect becomes more and more remarkable with an increasing temperature. As for the photo-oxidation behaviour, the presence of silica improves the photostability of the polypropylene matrix. This effect has been attributed to both the barrier to the oxygen and to the absorbance of the UV radiation from the silica nanoparticles. Finally, no significant effect of the silica nanoparticles has been put in evidence on the crystallisation behaviour of the polypropylene. As for the effect of the silica content, the difference in the properties of the two nanocomposites is relatively small and all the measured properties depend much less than linearly with its amount. This has been correlated with the reaggregation of the nanoparticles that, having a larger size, decrease the contact area between the matrix and the filler.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincenzo Titone
- Department of Engineering, University of Palermo, Viale delle Scienze, 90128 Palermo, Italy; (V.T.); (M.C.M.); (L.B.)
- INSTM Consortium for Materials Science and Technology, Via Giusti 9, 50125 Florence, Italy
| | - Maria Chiara Mistretta
- Department of Engineering, University of Palermo, Viale delle Scienze, 90128 Palermo, Italy; (V.T.); (M.C.M.); (L.B.)
- INSTM Consortium for Materials Science and Technology, Via Giusti 9, 50125 Florence, Italy
| | - Luigi Botta
- Department of Engineering, University of Palermo, Viale delle Scienze, 90128 Palermo, Italy; (V.T.); (M.C.M.); (L.B.)
| | - Francesco Paolo La Mantia
- Department of Engineering, University of Palermo, Viale delle Scienze, 90128 Palermo, Italy; (V.T.); (M.C.M.); (L.B.)
- INSTM Consortium for Materials Science and Technology, Via Giusti 9, 50125 Florence, Italy
- Correspondence:
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Biocomposites of Epoxidized Natural Rubber/Poly(Lactic Acid) Modified with Natural Substances: Influence of Biomolecules on the Aging Properties (Part II). Polymers (Basel) 2021; 13:polym13111677. [PMID: 34064033 PMCID: PMC8196701 DOI: 10.3390/polym13111677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2021] [Revised: 05/18/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study is to present the possible influence of natural substances on the aging properties of epoxidized natural rubber (ENR) and poly(lactic acid) (PLA) eco-friendly elastic blends. Therefore, the ENR/PLA blends were filled with natural pro-health substances of potentially antioxidative behavior, namely, δ-tocopherol (vitamin E), curcumin, β-carotene and quercetin. In this way, the material biodeterioration potential was maintained and the material’s lifespan was prolonged while subjected to increased temperatures or high-energy UVA irradiation (340 nm). The investigation of the samples’ properties indicated that curcumin and quercetin are the most promising natural additives that may contribute to the delay of ENR/PLA degradation under the above-mentioned conditions. The efficiency of the proposed new natural anti-aging additives was proven with static mechanical analysis, color change investigation, as well as mass loss during a certain aging. The aging coefficient, which compares the mechanical properties before and after the aging process, indicated that the ENR/PLA performance after 200 h of accelerated aging might decrease only by approximately 30% with the blend loaded with quercetin. This finding paves new opportunities for bio-based and green anti-aging systems employed in polymer technology.
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Ibáñez-García A, Martínez-García A, Ferrándiz-Bou S. Recyclability Analysis of Starch Thermoplastic/Almond Shell Biocomposite. Polymers (Basel) 2021; 13:polym13071159. [PMID: 33916363 PMCID: PMC8038610 DOI: 10.3390/polym13071159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2021] [Revised: 03/30/2021] [Accepted: 04/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
This article is focused on studying the effect of the reprocessing cycles on the mechanical, thermal, and aesthetic properties of a biocomposite. This process is based on starch thermoplastic polymer (TPS) filled with 20 wt% almond shell powder (ASP) and epoxidized linseed oil (ELO) as a compatibilizing additive. To do so, the biocomposite was prepared in a twin-screw extruder, molded by injection, and characterized in terms of its mechanical, thermal, and visual properties (according to CieLab) and the melt flow index (MFI). The analyses carried out were tensile, flexural, Charpy impact tests, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The effects of the reprocessing were also studied for the biodegradable unfilled TPS polymer. The results showed that TPS and TPS/ASP biocomposite suffer changes progressively on the properties studied after each reprocessing cycle. Furthermore, it was observed that the addition of ASP intensified these effects regarding TPS. However, in spite of the progressive degradation in both cases, it is technically feasible to reprocess the material at least three times without needing to incorporate virgin material.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Ibáñez-García
- AIJU, Technological Institute for Children’s Products & Leisure, 03440 Ibi, Alicante, Spain;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-965-554-475
| | | | - Santiago Ferrándiz-Bou
- Technological Institute of Materials (ITM), Universitat Politècnica de València (UPV), Plaza Ferrándiz y Carbonell 1, 03801 Alcoy, Alicante, Spain;
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