Poly(lactic acid) and Its Blends for Packaging Application: A Review

Abstract

Biopolymers obtained from renewable resources are an interesting alternative to conventional polymers obtained from fossil resources, as they are sustainable and environmentally friendly. Poly(lactic acid) (PLA) is a biodegradable aliphatic polyester produced from 100% renewable plant resources and plays a key role in the biopolymer market, and is experiencing ever-increasing use worldwide. Unfortunately, this biopolymer has some usage limitations when compared with traditional polymers; therefore, blending it with other biopolymers, such as poly(butylene succinate) (PBS), poly(butylene succinate-co-butylene adipate) (PBSA), poly(butylene adipate-co-butylene terephthalate) (PBAT) and different poly(hydroxyalkanoates) (PHA), is considered an interesting method to improve it significantly, customize its properties and extend the range of its applications. The following review highlights, in its first part, the physico-chemical and mechanical properties of PLA in comparison to the other biopolymers listed above, highlighting the various drawbacks of PLA. The second part of the review deals with recent developments, results, and perspectives in the field of PLA-based blends.

Enhancing the Hydrolytic Stability of Poly(lactic acid) Using Novel Stabilizer Combinations

“…One possibility here is the use of bio-based plastics such as poly(lactic acid) (PLA), poly(butylene succinate) (PBS) or polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) [ 1 , 2 , 3 , 4 ]. However, due to their low long-term durability, these materials are currently primarily used in the packaging sector or for disposable articles, with the focus mostly on the biodegradability of the polymer in order to address the waste problem in the environment [ 5 , 6 , 7 , 8 ]. From the viewpoint of the circular economy, however, this is the most unsatisfactory solution, since, here, the cycle from metabolization to renewed monomer or polymer synthesis is the most prolonged.…”

The Influence of Functional Composite Coatings on the Properties of Polyester Films before and after Accelerated UV Aging

“…In times of growing environmental concerns, alternative eco-friendly packaging materials should be developed, especially for short-term storage of food products. In this context, biopolymers that are biodegradable and bio-based such as poly(hydroxybutyrateco-hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV), poly(lactic acid) (PLA) and their blends may be considered a promising alternative for oil-based plastics [1][2][3]. Furthermore, properly designed active biopolymeric (e.g., antimicrobial) materials may affect the shelf life of food products and limit food waste.…”