Article
Polymer Science
Jie Cheng, Junjie Su, Yuan Tian, Xue Hu, Gutian Zhao, Zhonghua Ni
Summary: In this study, the factors influencing the mechanical properties of poly (L-lactic acid) (PLLA) vascular stents were investigated by accelerating the degradation process. The results showed that the radial strength of the stents initially increased and then decreased, while the radial stiffness showed an upward trend. The mass loss of the stents was negligible, indicating a bulk degradation behavior.
JOURNAL OF APPLIED POLYMER SCIENCE
(2023)
Article
Polymer Science
Eduardo Ruiz-Silva, Mirleth Rodriguez-Ortega, Luis Carlos Rosales-Rivera, Francisco Javier Moscoso-Sanchez, Denis Rodrigue, Ruben Gonzalez-Nunez
Summary: Blends of PLA/LMDPE with different weight ratios were prepared using rotational molding and two mixing strategies, DB and MB. Thermal, morphological, and mechanical analyses showed that the blends' thermal stability, morphology, and mechanical properties were affected by the blending technique. DB generated larger particle sizes compared to MB, and blends with different PLA contents exhibited synergistic effects in tensile and flexural properties.
Article
Polymer Science
Lidong Feng, Xinchao Bian, Gao Li, Xuesi Chen
Summary: By investigating the thermal properties, morphology, and thermal stability of PLLA/PDLA blends, a new stereoamorphous mesophase (sam-PLA) structure was discovered, and the relationship between different phases in the PLLA/PDLA blends was explored.
Article
Polymer Science
Leonard Bauer, Anamarija Rogina, Marica Ivankovic, Hrvoje Ivankovic
Summary: The production of biocompatible composite scaffolds using additive manufacturing is growing in popularity. This study focuses on the effects of different grades of polymers and the addition of hydroxyapatite (HAp) on the degradation behavior and thermal stability of the scaffolds. The results show that a higher HAp content slows down the degradation of the polymer and improves its thermal stability, as evidenced by morphological changes and differences in glass transition temperatures throughout the samples.
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Han-Seung Ko, Sangwoon Lee, Doyoung Lee, Jae Young Jho
Summary: By introducing PGA fibers and HA into PLA composites and modifying HA, the tensile and flexural strength of PLA/HA-g-PLA composites were improved, along with enhancing the interfacial adhesion between HA and the PLA matrix.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Kun Chen, Cheng Zhou, Lan Yao, Mengfan Jing, Chuntai Liu, Changyu Shen, Yaming Wang
Summary: Poly(lactic acid) (PLA) based ternary blends were prepared and the phase structures and mechanical properties were investigated. The PLA/PCL/EMA-GMA (80/5/15) blend exhibited the best elongation at break and impact toughness among all compositions, and showed excellent stiffness-toughness balance. The formation of core-shell structures and interfacial adhesion contributed to the toughening mechanism in the ternary blends. This study provides guidance for the preparation and design of partially renewable supertough materials based on PLA that can compete with conventional petro-derived plastics.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF BIOLOGICAL MACROMOLECULES
(2023)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Bincheng Huang, Zhenfeng Wang, Jiaying Tu, Chao Liu, Pei Xu, Yunsheng Ding
Summary: Imidazolium-functionalized polyurethane (IPU) functionalized multi-walled carbon nanotubes (CNTs) were used to control interfacial distribution and compatibilization of CNTs, and enhance electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding and mechanical properties of poly(lactic acid)/polycaprolactone (PLA/PCL) based composites. The EMI shielding properties for the PLA/PCL/8CNT/0.8IPU composites have been evidently increased to 35.6 dB. Meanwhile, the elongation at break and the notched impact strength of the PLA/PCL/8CNT/0.8IPU composite reached 307.8 % and 51.3 kJ/m2, respectively, which are increased by 27 and 53% of PLA/PCL/8CNT due to the compatibilization effect of IPU and the distribution of CNTs.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF BIOLOGICAL MACROMOLECULES
(2023)
Article
Materials Science, Composites
Guili Li, Mingliang Hao, Yifei Chen, Haimei Li, Jun Lin
Summary: Poly(lactic acid) (PLA) and PLA/natural fiber composites are considered environmentally friendly materials and have become a research hotspot. This study investigated the effects of ramie fiber (RF) content on the crystallization, thermal, and mechanical properties of PLA composites through experimental and numerical methods. The results showed that RF accelerated the crystallization rate of PLA, leading to improved tensile strength and Young's modulus without sacrificing thermal stability.
POLYMER COMPOSITES
(2022)
Article
Polymer Science
Gutian Zhao, Yuan Tian, Rixin Hua, Qingwei Liu, Jie Cheng, Gensheng Wu, Yi Zhang, Zhonghua Ni
Summary: The study demonstrates that the PLLA braided stent maintains good mechanical properties and structural integrity during 270 days of degradation in bile, showing promising potential for the treatment of biliary strictures. High radial force and bending performance are maintained, indicating the stent's ability to provide long-term support for severe benign biliary strictures.
JOURNAL OF APPLIED POLYMER SCIENCE
(2022)
Article
Polymer Science
Xiaolong Li, Shang Gong, Le Yang, Xiaosong Xia, Changkai Linghu, Jun Wang, Zhu Luo
Summary: In this study, rapidly degradable PLA/PBAT/FeCl3 blends were successfully prepared by adding a small amount of FeCl3 using the melt blending method. The materials maintained appropriate mechanical strength while showing a high degradation rate, with P/P-1 exhibiting promising potential value for applications in rapidly degrading solid waste treatment and biomedical materials such as artificial ureters.
Review
Polymer Science
Ineke Velghe, Bart Buffel, Veerle Vandeginste, Wim Thielemans, Frederik Desplentere
Summary: This review paper provides an overview of the state of the art on process-induced degradation of poly(lactic acid) (PLA) and the relative importance of different processing variables. The review focuses on degradation during melt processing techniques, such as injection molding and extrusion, and discusses general processing and fundamental variables, material properties for monitoring degradation, the effects of processing variables, and additives for melt stabilization. Despite existing knowledge on degradation reactions and their effects on PLA properties, gaps still remain in selecting and predicting processing conditions that minimize process-induced degradation.
Review
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Sina Momeni, Kaylee Craplewe, Muhammad Safder, Sandra Luz, Dominic Sauvageau, Anastasia Elias
Summary: As the demand for plastics increases globally, the accumulation of plastic waste in the environment has become a major concern. This Perspective discusses the potential of PLA-plant fiber composites to accelerate the degradation of PLA, and suggests testing protocols to distinguish between different degradation mechanisms.
ACS SUSTAINABLE CHEMISTRY & ENGINEERING
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Nedjma Tazibt, Mustapha Kaci, Nadjet Dehouche, Mohamed Ragoubi, Leonard Ionut Atanase
Summary: The effect of hydroxyapatite (HAp) synthesized by the chemical precipitation process on the morphology and properties of poly(lactic acid) (PLA)-based composites was investigated. It was found that the addition of 5 wt% HAp led to a slight improvement in the thermal stability and tensile properties of the composite material compared to neat PLA and other composite samples. The study also highlighted the potential use of HAp as a reinforcement in PLA composite materials.
Article
Polymer Science
Mohammad Hassan Shahavi, Peyman Pouresmaeel Selakjani, Mohadese Niksefat Abatari, Petar Antov, Viktor Savov
Summary: This research investigated the effects of adding wood leachate powder as a cost-effective filler to novel poly (lactic acid) biocomposites. The results showed that the inclusion of the filler improved the mechanical properties, hydrophobic nature, and antibacterial activity of the biocomposites.
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Rong Wang, Xiaojie Sun, Lanlan Chen, Wenbin Liang
Summary: In this study, biodegradable blends of PGA and PBAT with in situ compatibilization using MDI were prepared. The addition of PBAT was found to increase the complex viscosity and storage modulus of the blends, leading to improved compatibility and impact strength. The morphology of the dispersed phase evolved from spherical structure to in situ microfiber, enhancing interfacial adhesion and improving toughness.
Article
Environmental Sciences
Goretti Arias-Ferreiro, A. Otero-Pazos, Ana Ares-Pernas, I. Fernandez-Ibanez, B. A. Rodriguez-Gomez, J. L. Calvo-Rolle
Summary: The study conducted at the School of Computer Science of 'Universidade da Coruna' in Spain measured the radon activity concentration using two different techniques and performed corrective works based on the results. After the installation of a new ventilation system, measurements taken four months and three years later showed a decrease in radon gas values ranging between 87% and 90%.
JOURNAL OF RADIOLOGICAL PROTECTION
(2021)
Article
Materials Science, Paper & Wood
Belen Montero, Maite Rico, Luis Barral, Rebeca Bouza, Joaquin Lopez, Anja Schmidt, Birgit Bittmann-Hennes
Summary: The study prepared environmentally friendly films by using cellulose nanocrystals to reinforce bionanocomposites, showing improved moisture resistance and barrier properties while maintaining thermal stability, making them suitable for short-term applications such as food packaging.
Article
Polymer Science
Irene Derungs, Maite Rico, Joaquin Lopez, Luis Barral, Belen Montero, Rebeca Bouza
Summary: Thermoplastic starch (TPS) is a promising candidate for biodegradable polymers due to its wide availability, low cost, and biodegradability. The addition of montmorillonite nanofillers can improve the mechanical properties and thermal stability of TPS, with the most hydrophilic nanoclay, Cloisite Na+, being the most effective reinforcement.
POLYMERS FOR ADVANCED TECHNOLOGIES
(2021)
Article
Polymer Science
Goretti Arias-Ferreiro, Ana Ares-Pernas, Aurora Lasagabaster-Latorre, Nora Aranburu, Gonzalo Guerrica-Echevarria, M. Sonia Dopico-Garcia, Maria-Jose Abad
Summary: This study successfully predicted the printability of polyaniline/acrylate formulations using photorheology and Jacobs working curves, confirming the viability of these conductive composites for applications in flexible electronic devices.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Miguel R. Area, Belen Montero, Maite Rico, Luis Barral, Rebeca Bouza, Joaquin Lopez
Summary: In this work, green and fully biodegradable composites based on corn starch were successfully obtained by melt processing. The effects of different amounts of isosorbide plasticizer and PHBV microparticles on the composites' properties were studied. The results showed that the plasticization process was completed and the microparticles were homogeneously dispersed in the thermoplastic starch matrix without deformation or breaking. The biocomposites with suitable storage modulus and improved moisture resistance were completely biodegraded in soil, indicating their potential application in the packaging industry.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF BIOLOGICAL MACROMOLECULES
(2022)
Article
Food Science & Technology
Maria Paredes-Ramos, Enma Conde Pineiro, Horacio Perez-Sanchez, Jose M. Lopez-Vilarino
Summary: In a preventive context, natural peptides, such as SDRFSY, LSDRFS, and VIKP, have been found to play a significant role in combating SARS-CoV-2 by blocking ACE2 and CD26 or reducing inflammation associated with COVID-19.
JOURNAL OF FOOD QUALITY
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Adriana Dapena, Paula M. Castro, Ana Ares-Pernas
Summary: Service learning is an educational methodology where students gain academic and cross-disciplinary competences while serving the community. Due to COVID-19, service learning activities needed to be reorganized into an online format. This study presents the integration of different information and communication technology tools into an online platform for e-service learning, including activities and assessment. The main contribution is the simplified project implementation, progress monitoring, and result analysis, providing a virtual service that meets user needs.
APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL
(2022)
Article
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Goretti Arias-Ferreiro, Ana Ares-Pernas, Aurora Lasagabaster-Latorre, M. Sonia Dopico-Garcia, Pablo Ligero, N. Pereira, P. Costa, S. Lanceros-Mendez, Maria-Jose Abad
Summary: The design of suitable materials for high sensitivity and flexibility pressure sensors in wearable electronics is still challenging. In this study, a flexible and portable pressure sensor based on PANI/Lignin/acrylate is developed. The optimized photoinitiator and presence of lignin in the filler improve the printability and capacitive response of the sensor. The proposed sensor exhibits a sensitivity of 0.012 kPa(-1) in a linear range of 0-10 kPa with only 3.5 wt% PANI.
ADVANCED MATERIALS TECHNOLOGIES
(2022)
Article
Nanoscience & Nanotechnology
Goretti Arias-Ferreiro, Aurora Lasagabaster-Latorre, Ana Ares-Pernas, M. Sonia Dopico-Garcia, N. Pereira, P. Costa, S. Lanceros-Mendez, Maria-Jose Abad
Summary: Tunable UV-curable polymeric composites filled with PANI/MWCNT were prepared using Digital Light Processing and optimized for suitable 3D printing. The composites exhibited enhanced mechanical and electromechanical properties, making them suitable for pressure sensing applications.
ADVANCED ELECTRONIC MATERIALS
(2022)
Article
Polymer Science
Goretti Arias-Ferreiro, Aurora Lasagabaster-Latorre, Ana Ares-Pernas, Pablo Ligero, Sandra Maria Garcia-Garabal, Maria Sonia Dopico-Garcia, Maria-Jose Abad
Summary: With increasing environmental awareness, lignin is expected to play a crucial role in the development of sustainable and Industry 4.0 materials. This study demonstrates the successful incorporation of low amounts of unmodified lignin into 3D printed light-curable acrylic composites, resulting in composites with smoother surfaces, improved hardness, and higher wettability. The addition of lignin also enhances the dispersion of conductive filler in the composite, leading to reduced surface roughness and increased electrical conductivity.
Article
Polymer Science
Silvia Lage-Rivera, Ana Ares-Pernas, Juan Carlos Becerra Permuy, Anne Gosset, Maria-Jose Abad
Summary: In order to promote the application of FDM 3D printing in electronics, the development of new filaments with excellent electrical properties and processability is crucial. This study focuses on the fabrication of polymer composites filaments based on PLA carbon nanotubes and lignin blends, which exhibit superior electrical performance. The addition of lignin not only improves the 3D printability of the material, but also enhances its electrical conductivity, while maintaining the mechanical properties of the composite. A comparison with polyethylene glycol demonstrates that lignin is a more effective additive in terms of processability and adhesion. The successful 3D printing of an interactive electronic prototype using the new conducting filaments further validates their printability.
Article
Mathematics, Interdisciplinary Applications
Eduardo Patricio Estevez Ruiz, Giovanny Eduardo Caluna Chicaiza, Fabian Rodolfo Jimenez Patino, Joaquin Cayetano Lopez Lago, Saravana Prakash Thirumuruganandham
Summary: This study focuses on the performance testing and comparison of the most powerful supercomputer Quinde I in Ecuador, by measuring its performance using different parameters, optimizing the system for maximum performance.
