Poly(L-lactic acid) metal organic framework composites: optical, thermal and mechanical properties

Biodegradable composites based on poly(L‐lactic acid) (PLLA) and metal organic frameworks (MOFs) were developed. PLLA without and with the addition of 1, 3 and 5 wt% MOFs was melt compounded in a microextruder. The optical, physical, thermal, mechanical and thermomechanical properties of the composites were evaluated. The Fourier transform infrared, ultraviolet and colorimetric studies showed selected absorption at particular wavelengths due to the presence of copper and benzene belonging to the MOFs. The dynamic mechanical analysis results revealed that the heat deflection temperature, storage modulus and loss modulus of the PLLA–MOF composites did not significantly change compared with the neat PLLA samples. However, a significant decrease in the brittleness of the PLLA–MOF composite was found as evidenced by an increase of 15% in Izod impact strength and 170% in elongation at break. Overall, the brittleness of the PLLA–MOF composite sample decreased as the amount of MOF in the PLLA increased. Copyright © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry Poly(L‐lactic acid), PLLA, and metal organic frameworks (MOFs) were melt compounded. A significant decrease in the brittleness of the PLLA‐MOF composites was found.