The effect of ultra-low concentrations of aramid nanofibers on the structural and thermal characteristics of polylactic acid-based nanocomposites

Abstract

The work investigated the influence of aramid nanofibers (ANFs) on the structural and thermophysical characteristics of nanocomposites based on polylactic acid (PLA). Using a complex of physicochemical methods, including TEM, FTIR spectroscopy, X-ray structural analysis and DSC, it was found that even a small addition of ANFs contributes to changes in the morphology of the polymer matrix and its crystalline structure. In particular, it was found that ANFs perform the function of nucleation centers, increasing the degree of PLA crystallinity and the size of crystallites. At the same time, a decrease in the glass transition temperature is observed, which indicates increased mobility of macromolecular chains in the presence of nanofibers. The results obtained indicate the possibility of targeted modification of PLA properties through nanostructuring, which is a promising direction in the creation of new generation materials with adjustable physical characteristics.