Abstract: Polylactic acid(PLA) /montmorillonite(OMMT) nanocomposites was prepared by melt intercalation, the composite morphology structure, mechanical properties, thermal properties and dynamic rheological properties were characterized and tested, and foaming extrusion behavior of the composites was studied. The results showed that by melt intercalate different amounts of OMMT with PLA, different "intercalation" and "peel" structure can be formed; OMMT additive amount of 3% can improve the mechanical properties and thermal performance of PLA; OMMT can enhance the melt strength of PLA and also played the role of a nucleating agent in foaming extrusion process and diffusion of blowing agent in the PLA melt can be reduced, thereby enhancing the effect of PLA foaming extrusion.

Key words: poly(lactide acid), montmorillonite, melt intercalation, melt strength, foaming extrusion