Exploring the Synergy of Metallic Antimicrobial Agents in Ternary Blends of PHB/PLA/PCL.

This study provides a comprehensive investigation of antimicrobial additives (ZnO/AgNPs and SiO/AgNPs) on the properties of biodegradable ternary blends composed of poly(hydroxybutyrate) (PHB), poly(lactic acid) (PLA), and polycaprolactone (PCL) by examining the morphology, thermal stability, crystallinity index, and cell viability of these blends. Overall, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analysis revealed that AgNPs and SiO exhibited comparable sizes, whereas ZnO was significantly larger, which influences their release profiles and interactions with the blends. The addition of antimicrobials influences the rheology of the blends, acting as compatibilizers by reducing the intermolecular forces between biopolymers.

Designing Sustainable Polymer Blends: Tailoring Mechanical Properties and Degradation Behaviour in PHB/PLA/PCL Blends in a Seawater Environment.

Biodegradable polyesters are a popular choice for both packaging and medical device manufacture owing to their ability to break down into harmless components once they have completed their function. However, commonly used polyesters such as poly(hydroxybutyrate) (PHB), poly(lactic acid) (PLA), and polycaprolactone (PCL), while readily available and have a relatively low price compared to other biodegradable polyesters, do not meet the degradation profiles required for many applications. As such, this study aimed to determine if the mechanical and degradation properties of biodegradable polymers could be tailored by blending different polymers.