Evaluation of dynamic compressive properties of PLA/PBAT polymer alloys using split Hopkinson pressure bar method

Poly(lactic acid) (PLA) is a biodegradable biomass polymer. Polymer blends or polymer al- loys have been used to overcome its brittleness. Because poly(butylene/adipate/terephthalate) (PBAT) is a ductile and biodegradable polymer, PLA/PBAT polymer alloys can potentially exhibit high impact strengths. Di?erent mixing ratios of PLA/PBAT (80:20, 70:30 and 60:40) and the addition of dialkylperoxide as compatibilizing agent for each mixing ratio have been examined. The stress-strain curves of the PLA/PBAT specimens (observed using a scanning electron microscope) were measured using a split Hopkinson pressure bar (Kolsky bar) and a universal testing machine. The PBAT ratios and addition of dialkylperoxide a?ected the stress-strain curves. Yield stress decreased with increasing PBAT ratios. Addition of dialkylper- oxide did not change the yield stress of specimens when PLA:PBAT = 80:20. At high strain rates, the addition of dialkylperoxide clearly reduced yield stress and Young’s modulus when PLA: PBAT = 70:30 and 60:40.