Effects of radiation-induced crosslinking on thermal and mechanical properties of poly(lactic acid) composites reinforced by basalt fiber

Poly(lactic acid)/ basalt fiber (PLA/BF) composites were prepared by melt blending with a cross-linking agent, triallyl isocyanurate (TAIC). The thermal and mechanical properties of the composites were investigated through gel fraction, heat defection temperature (HDT), tensile tests and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Under certain conditions, the HDT of composites was dramatically increased to 140篊 after irradiation. Tensile properties were enhanced as well. Both these improvements were consistent with changes of the fracture morphology. Compatibilization and concomitant enhancement of the interfacial adhesive between the polymer matrix and the inorganic fiber were achieved as seen from SEM photos, as a result of the formation of co-crosslinking and grafting structures at the interface according to the determination of gelation extraction.