Accelerated hydrolysis and degradation of polylactide nanocomposites using loaded silica nanocarriers

Polylactide (PLA) stands as a prominent commodity biodegradable polymer, yet its inherent slow biodegradation under certain conditions has been a persistent challenge. This study introduces a general approach for enhancing the biodegradation of PLA by employing silica nanoparticles (SiNPs) loaded with diverse cargoes. The SiNPs with diameters of ca. 100 nm are synthesized through a sol–gel process in an inverse microemulsion, enabling in situ loading with functional cargoes such as poly(acrylic acid), lignosulfonate, and chitosan. Surface grafting with PLA (PLA-grafted SiNPs) serves to prevent aggregation, thereby enhancing the dispersion of nanoparticles within the PLA matrix and improving composite properties preventing depletion. Lignin-loaded SiNPs demonstrate the capability to block UV light and enhance antioxidant activity in the composite compared to neat PLA. Notably, SiNPs loaded with poly(acrylic acid) and chitosan exhibit the capacity to accelerate PLA hydrolysis in aqueous environments, while lignin as cargo results in faster composting with an increased weight loss of ca. 20 wt% compared to neat PLA at only 1 wt% loading of SiNPs. This research outlines a versatile strategy utilizing SiNPs to address the slow biodegradation profile of PLA, offering valuable insights and a promising avenue for advancing the environmental sustainability of degradable polyester-based materials in diverse applications.