Improvement of thermal behaviors of biodegradable poly(lactic acid) polymer: A review

Owing to its excellent mechanical properties, processability, and biodegradability, poly(lactic acid) (PLA) has been widely investigated in the past few decades as a biomaterial. However, the poor heat resistance of PLA severely limits its applicability. In this review, several heat resistance modification methods, such as nucleating agent addition, fiber reinforcement, compounding, blending, stereoisomer complexation, and chemical modification, have been reviewed and their related mechanisms have been discussed in brief.