Extrusion grade of PLA (NatureWorks®
PLA2003D) with a density of 1.24 g·cm−3 and a
melting point of 165 °C was used as polymer matrix
due to its biodegradability and commercial availability.
Fine particles of CSR (ParaloidTM BPM-520, Dow
Chemicals Company) were added to PLA and
PLA/rubber wood composites for the purpose of toughening.
The bulk density and the average particle size of
CSR are 0.4 g·cm−3 and 2.5 micrometer respectively.
The rubber wood (Hevea brasiliensis) sawdust was obtained
from the waste from a sawmill in Ayutthaya,
Thailand. The wood flour was further grinded by a ball
mill and sieved to the top cut sizes of 500 m