An alternative for plasticisers is the use of polymeric materials that improve leeching properties due to their larger size. In this project, novel saturated polyesters prepared from bio-based materials such as sebacic, succinic and citric acids and 1,3-propanediol or 1,4-butanediol as alcohols were sought. The final polyesters were fully characterised and tested as efficient phthalate substitutes in PVC plasticisation. The best formulation MP5 exhibited similar tensile strength to DEHTP but much higher elongation at break. The MP5 formulation was used in industrial production of a transparent tube.
Awards 2022