The composting of PLA/HNT biodegradable composites as an eco-approach to the sustainability
Dorota Czarnecka‐Komorowska, Katarzyna Bryll, Ewelina Kostecka, Małgorzata Tomasik, Elżbieta Piesowicz, K. Gawdzińska
Abstract
The article presents the results of the research related to the decomposition of polylactic acid (PLA)/halloysite nanotube (HNTs) biocomposites into a simple organic form. After manufacturing the nanocomposites, the evaluation of the composting process simulation was conducted using the biodegradation method. First, the selected properties of PLA/HNTs biocomposites, such as density, water absorption, and impact strength were tested. Next, the impact of the composting process on the behavior of PLA/HNTs composites was investigated from 30 to 90 days. Finally, the loss of mass of the composites, hardness, and the structural changes of biocomposites under the composting conditions before and after the composting were evaluated using SEM microscopy. The results showed that the PLA modified by HNT particles has biodegradation-friendly properties and therein is fully suitable for organic recycling. Due to this, in the coming years, it may contribute to the replacement of non-biodegradability polymers, i.e. polyolefins and polyesters, and reduction of plastic packaging wastes.