Assessment of mechanical behavior of PLA composites reinforced with Mg micro-particles through depth-sensing indentations analysis

This work deals with the mechanical characterization by depth-sensing indentation (DSI) of PLLA and PLDA composites reinforced with micro-particles of Mg (up to 15 wt%), which is a challenging task since the indented volume must provide information of the bulk composite, i.e. contain enough reinforcement particles. The composites were fabricated by combining hot extrusion and compression moulding. Physico-chemical characterization by TGA and DSC indicates that Mg anticipates the thermal degradation of the polymers but does not compromise their stability during processing. Especial emphasis is devoted to determine the effect of strain rate and Mg content on mechanical behavior, thus important information about the visco-elastic behavior and time-dependent response of the composites is obtained. Relevant for the intended application is that Mg addition increases the elastic modulus and hardness of the polymeric matrices and induces a higher resistance to flow.

biodegradable composites; mechanical properties; indentation tests; pla; magnesium; orthopedic applications; biomedical applications; viscoelastic materials; nanoindentation; polymers; creep; nanocomposites; particles; modulus; acid

Assessment of mechanical behavior of PLA composites reinforced with Mg micro-particles through depth-sensing indentations analysis Articles