Investigation of The Use of PEG as a Compatibilizer in  Nanocellulose Reinforced PLA Composites

Lucas Nao Horiuchi; Paulo Romano Correia; Vinícius Oliveira; Mariana Souza; Ana Paula Gonçalves; Rodrigo Polkowski

doi:10.34178/jbth.v9i4.606

Lucas Nao Horiuchi
Paulo Romano Correia
Vinícius Oliveira
Mariana Souza
Ana Paula Gonçalves
Rodrigo Polkowski

DOI: https://doi.org/10.34178/jbth.v9i4.606

Keywords: PLA, Cellulose, Nanofibrils, PEG, Compatibilization, Biocomposites

Abstract

Poly(lactic acid) (PLA) is a widely used biodegradable polymer due to its renewable origin and favorable environmental properties. However, its low ductility and impact resistance limit its use in more demanding applications. In this context, this study investigated the formulation of PLA composites with a masterbatch containing natural trichomes, cellulose nanofibrils (NFC), and polyethylene glycol (PEG), with the aim of improving the interfacial compatibility and mechanical properties of the material. The literature shows that NFC can reinforce the polymer matrix, but its dispersion is hampered by the difference in polarity with PLA, making it necessary to use compatibilizers such as PEG. The experimental results indicated that formulations with balanced NFC and PEG contents showed significant improvements in mechanical strength and deformation at break, especially those that employed the PEG masterbatch (MB) strategy. The proposed approach proved to be effective and sustainable, expanding the potential application of PLA in sectors that demand higher performance, such as technical packaging, biodegradable films, and structural components from renewable sources.