PLA and Nylon 12 (Polyamide) Interaction

[h19nguye]

all,

has anyone evaluated any polymeric crosslinking between PLA and Nylon? i haven't seen any white paper or published article discussing about the interaction on molded PLA and molded Nylon 12? Typical application for Nylon 12 is angioplasty balloon.

 

[Demon3]

Based on their chemistry they could react together for example at high temperature in an extruder. You can encourage that by using a transesterification catalyst for example antimony trioxide.

You can use additives to react them together and compatibilize them for example Cray Valley US makes such additives.

Chris DeArmitt PhD FRSC CChem

 

[h19nguye]

Dr. DeArmitt,

Thank you for a quick response. These two polymeric would not react at lower temperature (such as 50C). Extrusion temperature for PLA is typically run at ~200 degree C. Again, thanks for your input.

 

[patprimmer]

I am not clear as to your question.

Are you asking if they you can get them to interact and if so under what conditions OR if you can prevent an interaction and if so under what conditions.

Also whichever course, what limitations do you have, ie must be suitable for biological contact? or whatever.

Regards
Pat
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[h19nguye]

Pat,

I essentially have two molded materials (component A: Molded Nylon 12, component B: PLA). I need to compress component A onto component B using a mechanical press under pressure and at 50C for 15 minutes. Should i expect any negative interaction (are they reactive to each other) knowing that neither material would melt at 50 degree C)?

Many thanks

 

[patprimmer]

I have no first hand experience, but I expect Chris might comment further now the question is clear.

Generally speaking there are no interactions between polyesters and nylon and they are in fact sometimes used in a deliberate combination for bearings.

This particular polyester is less stable (biodegradable) and has very low temperature resistance, but at 50 deg C I can't see the possibility of a chemical interaction unless there are also other aggressive chemicals present.

Physical deformation is another issue and at that temperature I ca imagine the PLA might deform permanently under the influence of the shape of the nylon. I am presuming un-plasticised nylon 12.


Regards
Pat
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[Demon3]

No interaction expected under those conditions unless you have lots of water present.

Chris DeArmitt PhD FRSC CChem