Polylactide/graphene nanoplatelets composite films: Impact of high-pressure on topography, barrier, thermal, and mechanical properties

In this study, the compatibility of graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs) in the development of a polylactide (PLA)-based sustainable composite films and its suitability under high-pressure (HP) processing (300–600 MPa/15 min) were examined. The GNP concentrations relative to PLA were restricted to 2 wt% while 10 wt% polyethylene glycol (PEG) was blended as a plasticizer. The film properties were examined by monitoring the thermal, barrier, mechanical, and microstructure before and after the pressure treatments. Reinforcement of GNP and pressurization both significantly improved the glass transition and crystallization temperatures of the film. Both water vapor and oxygen permeabilities were increased with increasing HP intensity. Both the loading concentration and the applied pressure significantly influenced tensile, microstructure, and AFM surface roughness. This work demonstrates the limitations of thermal and mechanical properties of biodegradable single-layer nanocomposite films in the HP environment and the future directions to improve those properties for industrial uses.