Thermoplastic polyester elastomers based on long-chain crystallizable aliphatic hard segments

Abstract

A plant-oil derived long-chain (C₂₃) α,ω-dicarboxylic acid and the corresponding diol provide entirely aliphatic hard segments in segmented thermoplastic polyester elastomers, with poly(tetramethylene glycol) (PTMG) or carbohydrate-based poly(trimethylene glycol) (PPDO) soft segments. Physical crosslinking is provided by their polyethylene-like crystallinity. Compared to materials derived from mid-chain (C₁₂) analogs, thermal properties are significantly enhanced, with melting points up to 96 °C. These novel materials feature high ductility values in combination with a good elastomeric behavior.