The effect of maleinized linseed oil as biobased plasticizer in poly(lactic acid)‐based formulations

The use of maleinized linseed oil (MLO) as a potential biobased plasticizer for poly(lactic acid) (PLA) industrial formulations with improved toughness was evaluated. MLO content varied in the range 0–20 phr (parts by weight of MLO per hundred parts by weight of PLA). Mechanical, thermal and morphological characterizations were used to assess the potential of MLO as an environmentally friendly plasticizer for PLA formulations. Dynamic mechanical thermal analysis and differential scanning calorimetry revealed a noticeable decrease in the glass transition temperature of about 6.5 °C compared to neat PLA. In addition, the cold crystallization process was favoured with MLO content due to the increased chain mobility that the plasticizer provides. PLA toughness was markedly improved in formulations with 5 phr MLO, while maximum elongation at break was obtained for PLA formulations plasticized with MLO content in the range 15–20 phr. Scanning electron microscopy revealed evidence of plastic deformation. Nevertheless, phase separation was detected in plasticized PLA formulations with high MLO content (above 15–20 phr MLO), which had a negative effect on overall toughness. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry