Surface treated banana fiber reinforced poly (lactic acid) nanocomposites for disposable applications

Abstract Polylactic acid (PLA) is a completely biodegradable potential replacement for petroleum based plastics used for various commodity applications. However, difficulties in processability and cost restrict the polymer to clinch its niche in the market. Present investigation tried to modify the processability and cost of the PLA without compromising its inherent highlighted properties like good mechanical performances and biodegradability. Chemically treated banana fiber (BF) and organically modified nanoclay (cloisite 30B) has been incorporated as reinforcing fillers within the PLA matrix by melt mixing method. Various silane coupling agents and NaOH have been used for the chemical modification of BF to improve the interfacial interaction with PLA macromolecules. Performance characteristics of optimized composition of BF reinforced PLA bionanocomposite was evaluated through mechanical, thermal and flammability characteristics. Further, the newly developed bionanocomposite has been used for preparing biodegradable cutlery under industrial conditions.