Microcosmic morphology and properties of hollow glass beads‐reinforced polylactic acid–based foam composites

Polylactic acid (PLA)–based foam composites reinforced with hollow glass beads (HGBs) were prepared via a two‐step process. First, the glass beads, PLA, foaming agent, and other additives were blended, supplanted, and pelletized. Second, the foaming masterbatch was introduced into the mold using thermocompressor to make the microfoam composites. The foam morphology, mechanical properties, and heat resistance were investigated. The experimental results show that the compressive strength of the composites achieved an optimal value when the mass fraction of HGBs was 15%, and that the elastic modulus of the composites increases with increasing bead contents. In addition, after doing a comparative analysis of composites with different bead contents, it was discovered that the foam morphology quality became more uniform and fine with the addition of the beads. Finally, it was found that inclusion of the beads enhanced the thermal stability of the composites and improved their thermal decomposition temperature by about 50°C. POLYM. COMPOS., 37:692–699, 2016. © 2014 Society of Plastics Engineers