Development and Experimental Examination of Biobased Flame Retardants for Polylactic Acid

An examination was undertaken into the properties of an innovative flame retardant (FR) biocompatible composite material based on phytate and poly(lactic acid) or polylactide (PLA). This research outlined optimal synthesis conditions for chitosan phytate (CSPhy), PLA-modified CSPhy, and polyvinyl amine phytate and identified key findings such as usage of novel water-insoluble intumescent FRs as additives which improved PLA properties and combustion behavior. End composites achieved a greater flammability classification, UL-94 V-0, compared to pure PLA L105 with class UL-94 V-2. Composites of PLA L105 with CSPhy exhibited the most advantageous properties along with the best self-extinguishing characteristics.