Fabrication and properties of PLA composites toughened by SBS

The composites of poly (lactic acid) (PLA) toughened by styrene-butadiene block copolymer (SBS) were prepared via molten blending and compression molding. The effects of SBS contents were investigated on the morphologies, mechanical and thermal properties of composites. The results show that typical droplet-matrix morphologies of SBS/PLA composites were observed with well dispersed SBS particles in matrix and fine interfacial adhesion between SBS and PLA. The tensile strength and elastic modulus were decreased, however, the elongation at break and impact toughness of SBS/PLA composites were constantly increased with increasing SBS mass fraction within the range of research. The heat stability of SBS/PLA composites was greatly improved by the introduction of SBS with the evidence of thermo-decomposing temperature shifting to high temperature zone obviously.