Novel PBAT-based biocomposites reinforced with bio-absorbable phosphate glass microparticles

Biocomposites, based on poly(butylene adipate terephthalate) (PBAT) and loaded with micro-particles of inorganic biodegradable phosphate glass (PG) at 2, 10 and 40 wt%, are prepared and characterized from a mechanical and morphological point of view. Scanning electron microscope images show PG micro-grains are well dispersed, even at high concentrations, in the PBAT matrix resulting in homogeneous composites. Tensile and dynamic-mechanical tests indicate Young and storage moduli respectively increase with PG concentration. The reinforcement of PBAT has the purpose of modifying and modulating the mechanical and thermo-mechanical properties of the material to expand its application field especially in the food and agricultural packaging sector , thanks to the similarity of PBAT performance with polyethylene.