Improving the barrier properties of a biodegradable polyester for packaging applications. (June 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Sangroniz, Ainara; Sangroniz, Leire; Gonzalez, Alba; Santamaria, Antxon; del Rio, Javier; Iriarte, Marian; Etxeberria, Agustin
• Is Part Of: European polymer journal. Volume 115(2019)
• Page Start: 76
• Page End: 85
• Publication Date: 2019-06
• Subjects: Biodegradable polymer -- Free volume -- Permeability -- Packaging; Polymers -- Periodicals; Polymerization -- Periodicals; Polymères -- Périodiques; Polymérisation -- Périodiques; Polymerization; Polymers; Periodicals; Electronic journals; 547.705
• DOI: 10.1016/j.eurpolymj.2019.03.026
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0014-3057

Abstract

Graphical abstract: Highlights: Miscible blends of poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) and phenoxy have been studied. The free volume of PBAT is reduced significantly with the addition of phenoxy. The permeability to gases and vapours is greatly decreased with the addition of phenoxy. The blends present an improved processability for extrusion blow process. Correlation between the different factors that lead to this outstanding barrier improvement. Abstract: Miscible and thermally stable blends of biodegradable poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT) with poly(hydroxy ether of bisphenol A) (PH) are investigated to obtain membranes for packaging applications. Previously the miscibility and adequate degradability of these blends was proven, therefore this system is a good candidate for packaging applications. The crystallinity degree and the free volume, both of crucial importance in transport properties, are analysed as a function of blend composition. The transport properties to different gases and vapours are greatly reduced with the addition of PH. The blends show high elongational viscosity values, which allows expecting good film processability. Overall, this work sheds light on the factors involved in the reduction of permeability which would allow to broaden this strategy to other promising biodegradable materials.