Mechanical performance of a PLA-based biodegradable plastic for liquid packaging application

This thesis proposed a methodology in evaluating new application of a biodegradable plastic, Polylactide, for chemical liquid packaging applications. Polylactide (PLA) is a kind of polymer derived from renewable resources, which used in packaging applications as an alternative solution to address the ecological problem of petrochemical-based plastic waste accumulation. By understanding the characteristics of liquid diffusion inside the material, the material properties can be modelled more accurately for precise prediction of mechanical performance under various loading condition over the service time. The study takes into account the importance of mass transport in packaging application related to mechanical behaviour and failure of the package due to sorption of liquid substances.