High impact resistance PLLA-based composites designed by TP-RTM
Résumé
Among the various composites production processes, Resin Transfer Molding (RTM) is a specific process which relies on the injection, into a mold containing fibers, of a monomer and a catalyst in order to carry out the in situ polymerization of the matrix. The major advantage over conventional melt processes is the possibility of reaching a high amount of fibers while improving their wetting by the matrix. While a wide selection of thermosetting matrix resins are available on the market for RTM process, there are only a few commercial resins for thermoplastic matrices (TP-RTM). We present here current work aiming at strengthening the mechanical properties of PLLA matrix by producing a novel composites family by copolymerization of L-LA with E-caprolactone (PLCL), with various reinforcements. PLCL/glass fabric prototype with 30 % E-CL displays an impact resistance 80% higher than pure PLLA analog. F. Bonnet* et. al. ACS Appl. Polym. Mater, 2022, 4, 6797-6802.