ICON Web & News
Search Using OECD Database
Return to Previous Page
Addition or Correction
PLA and Montmorilonite Nanocomposites: Properties, Biodegradation and Potential Toxicity
Link to Journal Abstract
The concern related to solid waste increases efforts to develop products based on biodegradable materials. At present, PLA has one of the highest potentials among biopolyesters, particularly for packaging. However, its application is limited in some fields. In order to optimize PLA properties, organo-modified montmorilonites have been extensively used to obtain nanocomposites. Although PLA nanocomposites studies are widely reported in the literature, there is still few information about the influence of organoclays on de biodegradation process, which is a relevant information, since one of the main purposals related to the final disposal of biopolymers as PLA is composting. Besides, in the last years some research has been conducted in order to evaluate the potential toxicity of montmorilonite, unmodified or organo-modified. Since the use of montmorilonite is expanding in different applications, human exposure and risk assessment are important issues to be investigated. In this context, this review intends to compile available information related to common organoclays used for PLA nanocomposites, its properties, biodegradation analysis and potential toxicity evaluation of nanocomposites, focused on montmorilonite as filler. Two issues of relevance were pointed out. The first is food safety and quality, and the second consideration is the environmental effect.
This review intends to compile available information related to common organoclays used for PLA nanocomposites, its properties, biodegradation analysis and potential toxicity evaluation of nanocomposites, focused on montmorilonite as filler. Two issues of relevance were pointed out. The first is food safety and quality, and the second consideration is the environmental effect.
Exposure Or Hazard Target
Method Of Study
Environmental Fate and Transport
Risk Exposure Group
Journal of Polymers and the Environment, 21(3): 738-759 (September 2013)
Journal of Polymers and the Environment
Souza PMS, Morales AR, Marin-Morales MA, Mei LHI
Last updated on October 14, 2013
This work is supported in part by the Nanoscale Science and Engineering Initiative of the National Science Foundation
under NSF Award Number EEC-0118007.
Why Join Us?
Mission and Strategy
Good Nano Guide
Nano EHS Research Needs
Current Practices Survey