Insights into the nucleation and crystallization analysis of PHB-rubber toughened PLA biocomposites

Abstract An insightful understanding of the isothermal cold crystallization, melting behavior, and kinetics of the novel PHB-rubber copolymer ( PHB-di-rub )-reinforced polylactide (PLA) were determined. Incorporating 10 wt% PHB-di-rub significantly reduces the crystallization half-times (t1/2) by 32-fold, lowers the kinetic parameter (Kg) and folding surface energy (σe ), which show the rapid polymer chains folding and the super-nucleating capability due to simultaneous instigated nucleation and plasticization. Concurrently, the shear-thinning behavior verified the plasticization effect and the convergence of diffraction peak show development of primary α′-crystalline form that contributes to the PLAs' ultra-extensibility. This evocative finding could comprehend a valuable framework for the future development of high-performance PLA/PHB-based copolymer biocomposites with total green physiognomies.