Hydrolysis of poly(butylene terephthalate)

Abstract

Abstract The hydrolytic stability of poly(butylene terephthalate) (PBT) resins and compounds was studied. Rates of reaction were determined by measuring changes in melt flow rate. Hydrolysis was slightly accelerated by contact of PBT with glass containers and reduced by incorporation of some flame retardant additives. Melt flow rates were related to tensile elongation ofunfilled PBT and tensile strength ofthe glass fiber reinforced polymer and used as failure criteria. Reaction rates were used to predict failure times at various conditions.