Influence of Multifunctional Monomers on Gamma Irradiated Polylactic Acid

Abstract

The aim of this work was to compare and discuss the influence of multifunctional monomers as crosslinking agent (Triallyl Isocyanurate; TAIC) and chain extender (Joncryl ADR4368) on the gamma irradiated Polylactic acid (PLA). The modified PLA samples with varying amount of TAIC and Joncryl were characterized by observing the molecular characteristics and mechanical properties. The results showed that irradiated PLA had lower average molar mass and mechanical properties compared to non-irradiated PLA due to irradiation induced chain scission. Gel content was observed and increased with increasing irradiation dose for the TAIC modified sample, indicating that the further crosslink of irradiated PLA was occurring. Crosslinking and chain extension were responsible for the improved modulus and tensile strength of irradiated PLA, however the decrease in tensile strength at high irradiation dose was observed for crosslinked PLA.