Multisorb Technologies Presented on Enhancing the Crystallization of Poly(lactic acid)
Buffalo, New York – June 2011
Multisorb Technologies, the world leader in active packaging, is pleased to announce that CC Chau, Senior Scientist, presented at the Society of Plastics Engineers (SPE) ANTECS 2011 technical conference on May 3, 2011. Chau’s presentation, Non-Isothermal Crystallization of Poly(lactic acid): Effect of Nucleation and Cooling Rate, was delivered during the Bioplastics and Polymer Analysis session.
Enhanced crystallization of Poly(lactic acid) (PLA) may provide mechanical enhancement, improved heat stability, and gas barrier - properties that are desirable for use in packaging and consumer goods. Chau presented methods for enhancing the crystallization of PLA and various PLA blends.
Chau discussed the effect of a nucleation agent and the cooling rate on the crystallization of PLA as well as blend compositions. Data which were analyzed using a modified Kissinger method were presented. The data demonstrated that the nucleation effect of talc decreased rapidly as the cooling rate increased. Additionally, the nucleation effect was enhanced as the talc content was increased. Chau also showed a correlation between the modified Kissinger plot and Avrami analysis.
CC Chau has been with Multisorb since 2008. He has a Ph.D in Materials Science from the University of Rochester. Prior to joining Multisorb Technologies, Chau worked in the plastics and packaging industries.
