In this thesis, the focus is on Polylactide (PLA) based polymers, recognized as the leading 100% biobased resin globally. These polymers align with the Circular Economy model proposed by the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, offering both composting and recycling as viable end-of-life options. PLA is commercially produced by transforming lactic acid into lactide, followed by polymerization. The unique stereochemistry of PLA molecules significantly influences manufacturing processes, performance characteristics, and overall processability. Despite its importance, the role of stereochemistry in shaping PLA's product performance and applications is often overlooked and not thoroughly understood. The present work discusses stereo-complex PLA using reactive extrusion to improve the mechanical performance of thermoplastic PLA matrix.It also focuses on polymerization of meso-PLA and further modification of Poly (meso-lactide) and commercial PLA grades for applications in paper- coating. Lastly, reactive extrusion is emphasized as a continuous and facile method for synthesis of PCL and PLA. The overall aim of the thesis is to focus on utilization of PLA in different domains of application through synthesis or modification using twin-screw extruder as a facile approach.
Read
