Synthesis and characterization of maleated poly(3-hydroxybutyrate)

Cheng Chen, Shuwen Peng, Bin Fei, Yugang Zhuang, Lisong Dong, Zhiliu Feng, Shan Chen, Hongmei Xia

Research output: Journal article publicationJournal articleAcademic researchpeer-review

73 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Graft copolymerization of maleic anhydride (MA) onto poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) (PHB) was carried out by use of benzoyl peroxide as initiator. The effects of various polymerization conditions on graft degree were investigated, including solvents, monomer and initiator concentrations, reaction temperature, and time. The monomer and initiator concentrations played an important role in graft copolymerization, and graft degree could be controlled in the range from 0.2 to 0.85% by changing the reaction conditions. The crystallization behavior and the thermal stability of PHB and maleated PHB were studied by DSC, WAXD, optical microscopy, and TGA. The results showed that, after grafting MA, the crystallization behavior of PHB was obviously changed. The cold crystallization temperature from the glass state increased, the crystallization temperature from the melted state decreased, and the growth rate of spherulite decreased. With the increase in graft degree, the banding texture of spherulites became more distinct and orderly. Moreover, the thermal stability of maleated PHB was obviously improved, compared with that of pure PHB. Its thermal decomposition temperature was enhanced by about 20°C. In addition, the introduction of the MA group promoted the biodegradability of PHB.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)659-668
Number of pages10
JournalJournal of Applied Polymer Science
Volume88
Issue number3
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 18 Apr 2003
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Biodegradable
  • Crystallization
  • Graft copolymers
  • Maleic anhydride
  • Poly(3-hydroxybutyrate)

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Chemistry
  • Surfaces, Coatings and Films
  • Polymers and Plastics
  • Materials Chemistry

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Synthesis and characterization of maleated poly(3-hydroxybutyrate)'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this