ETD

• ac
• automotive
• biobased materials
• cellulose acetate
• enr
• epoxidized natural rubber
• Joncryl
• pla
• planet bioplastics
• polylactic acid
• polymers

This study, conducted in partnership with PLANET BIOPLASTICS, addresses a critical challenge in sustainable material development. It investigates the feasibility of processing Epoxidized Natural Rubber (ENR) with Polylactic Acid (PLA) via extrusion and evaluates the potential of Cellulose Acetate (CA) and compatibilizers like Joncryl® to enhance phase interaction. The primary goal is to develop bio-based blends with improved toughness, HDT, and aesthetics for use in automotive interiors.
The work was carried out in two phases. In Phase 1, PLA/ENR blends of different compositions were prepared by extrusion and injection molding and characterized without additives. Mechanical, thermal, and morphological analyses, including Melt Flow Index (MFI), tensile testing, Charpy impact testing, FTIR, HDT, and SEM, were performed to establish baseline performance.
In Phase 2, the same blends were produced with CA and with CA combined with Joncryl® ADR, an epoxy-functional chain extender that also acts as a compatibilizer by improving interfacial adhesion between PLA and ENR. A selected set of tests was carried out to compare the mechanical performance and phase compatibility of the blends with and without these additives.
The results demonstrated that ENR increased the toughness and flexibility of PLA, while CA and Joncryl® further improved compatibility and stability. These findings confirm the potential of PLA/ENR-based blends as eco-friendly alternatives for non-load-bearing automotive components, such as interior trims, panels, and covers, thereby supporting the shift towards more sustainable materials in the automotive sector.