Cordenka® reinforced PLA - Advanced bio-derived composite material

Composites of Natureworks PLA 3251D reinforced with Cordenka® man-made cellulose rayon fibers processed by injection molding show enhanced mechanical properties compared to the neat resin. The composites feature a balanced performance of both favorable tensile and impact properties. The composites' raw materials are available on industrial scale and industrial capabilities for the compounding are existing. The presentation introduces Cordenka® fiber properties and current applications in the fields of tire and hose reinforcement. It reports of compounding and processing experiences with PLA-Cordenka® composites and gives detai Is on the composites' performance. Concluding remarks give an outlook on industrialization scenarios.