The Polymer Society of Korea

Abstract

Our initial investigations focused on Polylactic acid (PLA)/low-density polyethylene (LDPE) blends. Due to the long-chain branches (LCB) of LDPE, PLA/LDPE blends exhibit strain hardening behavior under extensional flow at specific morphological conditions. This strain hardening is highly beneficial for processes like blow molding or foaming. This concept has also been applied to Polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA)/LCB-PLA blends. This blend aims to enhance the mechanical properties and processability of PHA by utilizing the inherent stiffness and strain hardening effect of LCB-PLA, while maintaining PHA's biodegradability and introducing material properties suited for more demanding applications. In this research, PHA/LCB-PLA blends are assessed through linear and nonlinear rheological properties. Additionally, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) is conducted to examine the blend morphology.