The transition toward environmentally responsible textile production is accelerating the development of fibers produced from biodegradable polymers as sustainable alternatives to conventional petroleum-based materials. Among the most promising candidates, Polylactic acid (PLA) has received particular attention as it combines renewable origin, industrial compostability, and melt processability. However, its direct use in fiber manufacturing is still restricted by inherent drawbacks such as brittleness, limited thermal stability, and insufficient resistance to photo-oxidative degradation. Conventional fiber additives can partially overcome these limitations, yet their potential toxicity and environmental persistence have prompted increasing interest the development of in bio-derived functional modifiers that can ensure both performance and safety[1-3].

This work presents the preparation and characterization of PLA-based systems specifically designed for fiber production. A series of compounds containing bio-based plasticizers, antioxidants, UV stabilizers, and antimicrobial agents were prepared through melt compounding and hot pressing in order to evaluate the influence of the selected additives on the processability, morphology, and thermo-mechanical behaviour of the PLA polymer matrix. This preliminary characterization enabled the identification of the formulations providing the best balance between ductility, thermal stability during processing, and resistance to degradation.

The most promising formulations were subsequently processed into fibers, which were then thoroughly characterized to assess their structural, thermal, and mechanical properties in view of potential textile applications.

The results demonstrate that the synergistic combination of bio-based additives and optimized processing parameters enables the production of fully biodegradable fibers with significantly improved mechanical performance thermal stability and resistance to oxidative degradation. These findings highlight the potential of tailored PLA systems for the development of safer and more sustainable textile materials, supporting the transition toward greener manufacturing routes within the textile industry [4, 5]

References

1- H. Liu, H. Li, and Z. J. P. Hu, "The influence of spinning process on the properties and structure of PBS fibers", vol. 17, no. 9, p. 1138, (2025).

2- M. J. I. J. T. S. Rahman, "Innovations and challenges in biodegradable textile materials: a review of PLA, PHA and natural fibers in sustainable fashion", vol. 15, no. 1, pp. 1-4, (2025).

3- R. Nayak, L. Jajpura, and A. Khandual, "Traditional fibres for fashion and textiles: Associated problems and future sustainable fibres," in Sustainable fibres for fashion and textile manufacturing: Elsevier, pp. 3-25, (2023).

4- A. H. Bari, H. N. Akolkar, N. T. Hatvate, and A. J. E.-F. T. P. Haghi, "Future Directions and Emerging Trends in Eco-Friendly Textiles", pp. 57-82, (2025).

5- V. Singh, J. Verma, and A. Bajpai, "Unveiling the Wonders of Eco-Friendly Fibers: A Comprehensive Guide", (2024).

Acknowledgments

Progetto "Finanziato dall’Unione europea- Next Generation EU, Missione 4 Componente 2 - CUP E53D23005310006 "