Polysaccharide nanocrystals as fillers for PLA based nanocomposites

The development of green nanocomposites based on biopolymers and bio-based nanofillers has attracted over the recent years the attention of academic and industrial research. Indeed, these nanocomposites could replace some oil-derived polymers and thus helping to overcome environmental problems. In this regard, PLA as matrix and polysaccharide nanocrystals as fillers are the most promising components to obtain high-performance green bio-nanocomposites suitable for different applications, particularly for packaging and biomedical applications. Indeed, at present, due to its processability, mechanical and biological properties, as well as its commercial availability, poly(lactic acid) (PLA) possesses one of the highest potentials among biopolymers whereas polysaccharide nanocrystals can be considered the most promising bio-based reinforcements due to their availability, renewability, versatility, biodegradability and high aspect ratio. Aim of this review is to give an overview on the preparation routes and main properties of PLA/polysaccharide nanocomposites highlighting the main differences among the three main polysaccharide nanocrystals, i.e. cellulose, chitin, and starch.