Nanocomposite Poly(lactic acid)/sepiolite with Improved Mechanical and Biofilms Formation Properties

Abstract

Nanocomposites of poly(lactic acid) with sepiolite needles (5 wt.%) were evaluated in terms of the mechanical and biofilm formation properties. The nanocomposite exhibited higher values of the Young�s modulus and tensile strength at break compared to the PLA, without detriment in the percent elongation at break. These improvements were related to the high aspect ratio of the nanoclay, the polymer-clay interactions, and the degree of dispersion. The growth of Pseudomonas aeruginosa on the surface of the PLA and nPLA materials was promoted in different conditions. Medium with different concentration of nutrients were used and also were compared the effect of the medium physical state (solid or liquid medium). Biofilms were formed in all the conditions. However, the nanocomposite presented a higher area coverage of microorganisms on its surface, possibly due to the positive effects of the nanoclay on the bacterial adhesion.