Synergistic Effect of Mesoporous SBA‐15 Particles and Processing Strategy for Improving PLA Crystallization Capability in their Composites

Several composites based on an L-rich poly(lactic acid) (PLA) and mesoporous Santa Barbara Amorphous-15 (SBA-15) are prepared by their addition through two methods: solution-mixed (solvent casting) or melt-mixed (extrusion). Subsequently, films of all the materials processed compression molding. The nucleating capacity silica PLA crystallization is found to be strongly dependent protocol used for SBA-15 incorporation. Thus, particles induce some ordering in when extrusion but ability much more remarkable PLA-SBA casting, being observed cooling even at 40 °C min−1. Crystallinity, temperature, polymorphs developed also preparation method rate. Mechanical properties tested just compressed-molded films. At a given content, composite less stiff than material despite both completely amorphous. Accordingly, microhardness shows smaller value former. For approach, partial coating (either external internal) chains suggested occur during first stage, enabling better transfer reinforcement exerted into matrix.