Toughened Polyglycolic Acid Enabled by Glycolic-Based Polyester Elastomers: Preparation, Compatibility and...

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Polymer Chemistry
• Biomaterials

Background:

• Poly(glycolic acid) (PGA) is a promising biodegradable plastic but suffers from inherent brittleness, limiting its applications.
• Developing toughened PGA is crucial for expanding its use in various fields.
• Biodegradable elastomer tougheners are needed to improve PGA's mechanical properties without compromising its environmental benefits.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design and synthesize novel glycolate-based copolyesters (PPBAG) for toughening brittle poly(glycolic acid) (PGA).
• To improve the compatibility between the toughener and PGA matrix.
• To create a biobased and biodegradable elastomer toughener for enhanced PGA composites.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis of a series of glycolate-based copolyesters (PPBAG) using four monomers.
• Adjustment of glycolate content to disrupt polymer regularity and enhance compatibility.
• Characterization of PPBAG-PGA composites to assess phase dispersion, glass transition temperature (T_g) gap, and mechanical properties.

Main Results:

• Improved compatibility between PPBAG and PGA was achieved, indicated by smaller PPBAG dispersed phase size and a narrowed T_g gap.
• The toughened PGA composites exhibited significantly enhanced mechanical properties.
• Achieved an elongation at break of 54.5% and a notched impact strength of 12.1 kJ/m², representing substantial improvements over neat PGA.

Conclusions:

• The developed glycolate-based copolyesters effectively toughen poly(glycolic acid) (PGA).
• The approach enhances compatibility and mechanical performance, creating advanced biodegradable composites.
• This method offers a viable route to overcome PGA's brittleness for broader material applications.