3. Properties
PLA is characterized by very high rigidity and low elongation at break. Like polystyrene, it is very brittle in its pure form.
PLA is a semi-crystalline polymer with a melting temperature for the crystalline phase of around 175°C and a glass transition temperature for the amorphous phase of around 60°C.
PLA's optical properties are excellent, with low haze and high gloss, making it a very bright and transparent material.
It is a highly reactive polar material, unlike polyolefins. It also has a higher surface tension than polyolefins (around 40 mJ/m 2 vs. 30 mJ/m 2 ), making it easier to print.
PLA is also highly permeable to water vapor, making it a material of choice for applications such as textiles...
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Bibliography
- (1) - E. B. &. N. Institute - « http://www.european-bioplastics.org » [En ligne] (décembre 2016).
- (2) - Natureworks - « Innovation Takesroot Conference »....
Websites
Bioplastics magazine – Reference magazine for biopolymers
http://www.bioplasticsmagazine.com (page consulted on February 27, 2017)
Events
Biannual conference organized by Natureworks – Innovation takes root.
http://www.innovationtakesroot.com
Biannual conference – PLA world congress.
http://www.bioplasticsmagazine.com/en/events/4plaworldcongress
...Standards and norms
- Evaluation of the ultimate aerobic biodegradability of plastic materials under controlled composting conditions – Method by analysis of released carbon dioxide. - ISO 14855 -
- Packaging – Requirements for packaging recoverable by composting and biodegradation – Test program and assessment criteria for final acceptance of packaging. - EN 13432 -
- Plastics – Specifications for plastics suitable for home composting....
Directory
PLA producers
Natureworks (United States)
Zhejiang Hisun Biomaterials Co. LTD (China)
Synbra Holding BV (Netherlands)
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