Design of hybrid PLA/PBS/POM composite based on In-Situ formation of interpenetrating fiber networks

• Nanocomposites with new hybrid interpenetrating nanofiber networks were formed. • Tough, in situ-made PBS and rigid, ready-made POM nanofibers were combined in PLA. • POM nanofibers promoted formation of longer PBS nanofibers at higher temperature. • A positive hybrid effect on toughness of hybrid composites was achieved. • Reasons for the change from PLA crazing to homogeneous deformation were elucidated. Hybrid polymer–polymer nanocomposite of polylactide/poly(1,4-butylene succinate)/ polyoxymethylene (PLA/PBS/POM) system with interpenetrating fiber network was manufactured. Hybridization was by combining tough, in situ generated PBS nanofibers with rigid, ready-made electrospun POM nanofibers. The concentration of PBS and POM components was 10 wt% to establish continuous fiber network. Nanoporous surface of POM nanofibers with high specific surface area enabled strong interfacial interaction with PLA matrix. A positive effect of hybridization on mechanical properties was achieved for composite with interpenetrating network of POM and PBS fibers. Compared to PLA/PBS/POM blend, the PLA/PBS/POM composite was characterized by increase in: elastic modulus, yield stress, tensile impact strength and strain at break. Presence of POM fibers caused increase: in crystallinity and in crystallization temperature of PBS due to shear-induced crystallization. Presence of PBS and POM nanofibers caused a change of plastic deformation of PLA matrix from heterogeneous intensive crazing to homogeneous.