Crystallization behavior of poly(lactic acid) and its blends

Poly(lactic acid) (PLA) is one of the most interesting bio-based biodegradable alternatives, with great promise to replace petroleum-based plastics. However, the intrinsic slow crystallization ability of PLA restricts its extensive applications. In this perspective, we highlight some recent advances in PLA crystallization, including nucleation by self-assembly nucleating agents, self-nucleation (or memory effect), conformational ordering in the very early stage of crystallization, crystal nucleation investigated by fast scanning calorimetry (Flash DSC), crystallization under flow, and pressure fields, and crystallization of enantiomeric blends. Finally, major challenges and future perspectives are proposed.