ISSN:
0021-8995
Keywords:
Chemistry
;
Polymer and Materials Science
Source:
Wiley InterScience Backfile Collection 1832-2000
Topics:
Chemistry and Pharmacology
,
Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Production Engineering, Mining and Metallurgy, Traffic Engineering, Precision Mechanics
,
Physics
Notes:
The thermal stability of poly-∊-caprolactone samples obtained by ring-opening polymerization in the presence of different metal alkoxides has been investigated. A significant degradation of the polyesters is observed under isothermal conditions at 120°C. The degradation is related to the nature of the endgroup, the presence of catalyst residues, and the presence of molecular oxygen. The hydroxyl endgroups play a determinant role in the process. They probably give rise, under the influence of catalyst residues, to hydroperoxides which are responsible for the polymer degradation by a radical reaction. It is shown that this is clearly different from the change in molecular weights distribution due to the well-known ester interchange reaction (transesterification equilibrium). Resulting methods for the polymers stabilization are indicated.
Additional Material:
6 Ill.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/app.1976.070201104
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