Desarrollo de formulaciones derivadas de ácido poliláctico (pla), mediante plastificación e incorporación de aditivos de origen natural

Abstract

Development of polylactic acid (PLA)-derived formulations by plasticization and additives from renewable resources" The main objective of this doctoral thesis is the study, development and characterization of biodegradable or biocompatible materials from poly(lactic acid) (PLA) with improved properties for uses in several sectors such as food packaging, medical sector, etc. In order to modify the ductility and the stiffness of PLA, with the subsequent effects on its potential uses in different sectors, different fillers and/or additives were incorporated to PLA formulations by extrusion. Several plasticizers derived from vegetable oils and fatty acids were used; particularly, an epoxidized plasticizer derived from stearic acid (octyl epoxy stearate - OES) and a maleinized linseed oil - MLO were used. Another strategy that has been used in this research has focused on the development of binary blends with other polymers with increased ductility such as polycaprolactone (PCL) and thermoplastic starch (TPS). Finally, incorporation of several biocompatible/resorbable fillers derived from calcium orthophosphate (Ca3(PO4)2) such as ß-tricalcium phosphate (ß-TCP) and hydroxyapatite (HA), was carried out to widen the potential of these PLA-based materials in medical applications.