Synergistic reinforcing of poly(lactic acid)-based systems by polybutylene succinate and nano-calcium carbonate

Bio-based poly(lactic acid) (PLA) ternary systems were prepared by the solution blending of PLA, polybutylene succinate (PBS), and nano-CaCO₃. The effects of PBS and nano-CaCO₃ on the thermal stability, fracture toughness, mechanical properties, and morphology of PLA were investigated using several techniques. The morphology of the systems was observed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The fracture toughness and flexural strength of PLA were improved by the introduction of PBS and further enhanced by the addition of nano-CaCO₃. The elastic modulus of PLA decreased with the addition of PBS alone, whereas the elastic modulus increased with the simultaneous addition of PBS and nano-CaCO₃.