Thermo-Rheological and Shape Memory Properties of Block and Random Copolymers of Lactide and ε-Caprolactone

Abstract

Biodegradable block and random copolymers have attracted numerous research interests in different areas, due to their capability to provide a broad range of properties. In this paper, an efficient strategy has been reported for preparing biodegradable PCL-PLA copolymers with improved thermal, mechanical and rheological properties. Two block-copolymers are synthesized by sequential addition of the cyclic esters lactide (L-LA or D,L-LA) and ε-caprolactone (CL) in presence of a dimethyl(salicylaldiminato)aluminium compound. The random copolymer of L-LA and CL was synthetized by using the same catalyst. Chain structure, molar mass, thermal, rheological and mechanical properties are characterized by NMR, SEC, TGA, DSC, Rheometry and DMTA. Experimental results show that by changing the stereochemistry and monomer distribution of the copolymers it is possible to obtain a variety of properties. Promising shape-memory properties are also observed in the di-block copolymers characterized by the co-crystallization of CL and L-LA segments. These materials show great potential to substitute oil-based polymers for packaging, electronics, and medicine applications.

Recent developments in biodegradable block copolymers

“…These copolymers may serve as substitutes for oil-based polymers for packaging, electronics, and medical applications. 53 Li and coworkers documented an environmentally benign of the same diblock-copolymer were achieved by varying polymer length, composition as well as hydrophilic and hydrophobic chains.…”

“…Studies reveal that properties can vary by changing the stereochemistry and monomer distribution of the copolymers. These copolymers may serve as substitutes for oil‐based polymers for packaging, electronics, and medical applications 53 …”

“…These copolymers may serve as substitutes for oil-based polymers for packaging, electronics, and medical applications. 53 Li and coworkers documented an environmentally benign Some important BCPs and their applications are summarized in Table 1.…”

Polymer Composite Materials Based on Polylactide with a Shape Memory Effect for “Self-Fitting” Bone Implants

“…In addition, the reduction of mechanical properties also implies further work with the composition. The incorporation of bioactive ceramic particles into the composition [19] or the creation of block copolymers [36] can positively affect the amount of the rigid phase, improving the mechanical characteristics and the characteristics of the SME. Based on the results, it could be determined that the polymer composite material PLA + 10%PCL had no acute toxic effect on the cells.…”

Recyclable Shape-Memory Waterborne Polyurethane Films Based on Perylene Bisimide Modified Polycaprolactone Diol

“…Naddeo et al, reported that the complementary characteristics of PLA and PCL have suggested taking advantage of both through the copolymerization of the respective monomers. Promising shape-memory properties are also observed in di-block copolymers characterized by the co-crystallization of CL and L-LA segments [ 17 ]. The melting/crystallization of PCL is employed for utilizing the reversible switching function of its shape-memory behavior.…”