Synthesis and Characterization of Novel Chain-Linked Biodegradable Polymers

Abstract

The synthesis of high-molecular-weight lactic-acid-based polymers by chain-linked polymerization was investigated. A lactic-acid-based hydroxyl-terminated telechelic pre-polymer was synthesized and then it was chain-linked with methylene diphenyldiisocyanate (MDI). All polymerizations were carried out in the melt, using tin octoate as catalyst. The products were characterized by dynamic mechanical analyzer, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis and viscometry. With the increase in diisocyanate concentration, increases in the viscosity, storage modulus and glass transition temperature were observed.