To the best of our knowledge, while extensive works were done on characterization of PLA with the bio-sourced
plasticizers, there is no published work on how they can aid the processability of PLA. In melt-compounding
specifically, torque and stock temperature (temperature of the blend in the mixing chamber) are among the critical
parameters monitored throughout the processing. The torque must be controlled or lowered for effective mixing and
to reduce mechanical wear. The stock temperature must not exceed a certain range of temperature to prevent sample
degradation. These lead to the aim of the present research, that is investigate the effect of adding ESO and EPO in
producing toughened PLA and in aiding the processability during melt-compounding. The torque rheometer and
stock temperature curves of PLA/ESO and PLA/EPO blends at various loadings throughout the melt-compounding
were studied while the toughness of the blends was investigated through impact test.