Mechanical properties and flame retardancy of PLA composites containing zinc oxide and chain extender

A micro-cross-linked structure had been constructed by the addition of zinc oxide with nanometer-scale particle size (nano ZnO) and chain extender (ADR) into intumescent flame retardant poly (lactic acid) (FRPLA). Flame retardant properties, mechanical properties and thermal stabilities were studied. Limited oxygen index of the FRPLA composite with 1% nano ZnO and 0.8% ADR (FRPLA/0.8ADR/1ZnO) was a maximum (39.4%). T-max and residue at 800 degrees C of FRPLA/0.8ADR/1ZnO was the highest in air. Tensile strength, elongation at break and impact strength of FRPLA/0.8ADR/1ZnO was significantly higher than that which resulted with the addition of either individual filler, indicating that the synergistic effect between nano ZnO and ADR regulated the comprehensive performance of FRPLA. The synergetic effect between nano ZnO and ADR were further illustrated.