Graphene modifications in polylactic acid nanocomposites: a review

Abstract

Considerable interest has been devoted to graphene since this material has shown promising and excellent results in mechanical and thermal properties. This finding has attracted more researchers to discover the attributes of graphene due to its extensive and potential applications. This paper reviewed the recent advances in the modification of graphene and the fabrication of polylactic acid/ graphene nanocomposite. The different techniques that have been employed to prepare graphene, such as reduction of graphene oxide and chemical vapor deposition, are discussed briefly. The preparations of PLA/graphene nanocomposites are described using in situ polymerization, solution, and melt blending; and the properties of these nanocomposites are reviewed. Due to the difficulties in obtaining good dispersions, modifications of nanomaterials have been the critical issues that lead to excellent mechanical properties.

Recent Advances in Nanocomposites Based on Aliphatic Polyesters: Design, Synthesis, and Applications in Regenerative Medicine

“…Thermal transitions of APs are affected by the presence of nanofillers. Several studies have focused on PLA-based nanocomposites and have been recently reviewed [79,80]. In general, independently of the employed nanofiller, e.g., CNTs, graphene, or graphene oxide (GO), an increase of the melt crystallization kinetics is observed, as the nanoparticles act as heterogeneous nucleating agents for the polyester matrix crystallization.…”

The combined effect of plasticizers and graphene on properties of poly(lactic acid)

“…However, it has some disadvantages, such as brittle behavior with low impact strength, low crystallization ability, and low thermal resistance. PLA's physical, mechanical, and barrier properties depend on the solid‐state morphology and crystallinity . Many efforts have been directed toward overcoming those limitations, such as the addition of plasticizers and nanoparticles.…”

“…Some studies showed that nanoparticles with lamellar structure, such as clay, could limit or slow down the phase separation due to the aging of the plasticized blends. Therefore, graphene nanoplatelets can potentially lead to a synergistic effect with the plasticizer on the crystallization behavior of the PLA, thus limiting the phase separation in the plasticizers' mixture, besides improving the electrical and mechanical properties of the PLA …”

Influence of graphene nanosheets on stereocomplex crystallization behaviors of star‐shaped poly (D(L)‐lactide) stereoblock copolymer

“…In recent years, graphene nanosheets (GNSs) consisting of one‐atom thick two‐dimensional (2D) graphite layers have attracted considerable attention because of the excellent mechanical properties and high thermal stability . It has been reported that very low GNS content could significantly enhance the crystallization ability and improve the physical properties of polymers . Kim and Jeong investigated the morphology, structure, thermal stability, and mechanical properties of PLLA/graphene nanocomposites obtained by melt compounding at a range of temperatures from 175°C to 200°C.…”

“…[16][17][18][19][20] It has been reported that very low GNS content could significantly enhance the crystallization ability and improve the physical properties of polymers. 21,22 Kim and Jeong 23 The stereocomplex-PLA crystals could be formed between PLLA and GO-g-PDLA, and the incorporation of GO nano fillers led to lower crystallization activation energy and a higher crystallinity due to the heterogeneous nucleating effect. However, both homochiral-PLA crystals and stereocomplex-PLA crystals formed within PLLA and PDLA-graft-GO.…”