The Effect of Bis(2-HydroxyEthyl) Terephthalate on Mechanical Properties and Degradability of Poly (Buthylene Succinate)

Random copolyester containing poly(butylene succinate) (PBS) and poly(ethylene terephthalate) was successfully synthesized by two step polymerization. The molecular weights, mechanical properties and hydrolytic degradation of the copolyesters were characterized. High-molecular weight copolyesters with Mw more than 8×105 gmol−1 were obtained. The copolymerization increased copolymers elongation at break without reducing their modulus and strength. Despite of previous publication, the copolymerization had little effect on copolyester degradability and reduction in hydrolytic degradation was negligible