Modelling and Validation of Synthesis of Poly Lactic Acid Using an Alternative Energy Source through a Continuous Reactive Extrusion Process.

PLA is one of the most promising bio-compostable and bio-degradable thermoplastic polymers made from renewable sources. PLA is generally produced by ring opening polymerization (ROP) of lactide using the metallic/bimetallic catalyst (Sn, Zn, and Al) or other organic catalysts in a suitable solvent. In this work, reactive extrusion experiments using stannous octoate Sn(Oct)₂ and tri-phenyl phosphine (PPh)₃ were considered to perform ROP of lactide.

Development of CNC prototype for the characterization of the nanoparticle release during physical manipulation of nanocomposites.

This work focuses on the release of nanoparticles from commercially used nanocomposites during machining operations. A reliable and repeatable method was developed to assess the intentionally exposure to nanoparticles, in particular during drilling. This article presents the description and validation of results obtained from a new prototype used for the measurement and monitoring of nanoparticles in a controlled environment.