An overview of the recent advances in flame retarded poly(lactic acid)

Abstract Poly(lactic acid) (PLA) is derived from crops, and has a broad application prospect in electronics and electrical, automotive industries due to its biodegradability and good physical and mechanical properties. However, PLA's flammability and serious melt dripping cannot meet the requirements of terminal products, thus limiting its application. Over the past decade, much research on flame retardant PLA has emerged. This paper reviews the development of PLA flame retardants in recent years, focusing on phosphorus‐based, phosphorus–nitrogen‐based, bio‐based, nanoparticles, intumescent flame retardants, and their combinations. Besides that, the efficiency of flame retardant and its loading on the thermal and mechanical properties of PLA is also thoroughly reviewed. Finally, the future development of flame‐retardant PLA is briefly summarized and prospected.