Mechanical and thermomechanical properties of PLA/Man‐made cellulose green composites modified with functional chain extenders—A comprehensive study

The present study aims to investigate the influence of functional chain extenders on the mechanical and thermomechanical behavior of fully bio‐based polylactide composites reinforced with man‐made cellulose short fibers. Two additives with epoxy and maleic anhydride functionalities were used for this purpose. The biocomposite modifications resulted in a considerably altered fiber–matrix interface, which was clearly visible in SEM images, and which affected the tensile and flexural characteristics of the investigated materials. In particular, the chain extender functionalized with maleic anhydride groups influenced the fiber–matrix bonding, and contributed to pull‐outs when the biocomposite fractured. Moreover, a dynamic mechanical thermal analysis was performed, and the storage modulus E ′, loss modulus E ″, and loss factor (tan δ ) were determined. Also, the heat deflection and Vicat softening temperatures were verified. The results of the comprehensive thermal analysis confirmed that the reinforcement of amorphous PLA has no physical effect on its thermal stability. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:1716–1723, 2018. © 2016 Society of Plastics Engineers