Influence of poly(butylenes adipate-co-terephthalate) on the properties of the biodegradable composites based on ramie/poly(lactic acid)

Ramie/poly(lactic acid) (PLA) composites were prepared by using two-roll mill. Poly(butylenes adipate-co-terephthalate) was added into the composites, and the effect of PBAT on the mechanical properties and thermal properties of the composites was investigate. The tensile and flexural strength decreased with the increase of PBAT content, and the addition of a small amount of PBAT increased the impact toughness. Microscopic study of the fracture surfaces revealed deteriorated interfacial adhesion between the fiber and the matrix in presence of PBAT. DSC results showed that PBAT lead the glass transition temperature (Tg) and the percentage crystallinity (Xc) decrease. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) thermograms showed improved thermal stability as compared with ramie/PLA composites.