Synthesis of CO2-based Polyester for Remarkably Improving the Toughness, UV-resistance and Degradability of Bio-based Polylactic Acid

Abstract

Bio-based and carbon dioxide (CO2)-based polymers are the two most promising alternatives for fossil-based polymers which makes a great contribution to the sustainable development of resources and the reduction of CO2 emissions. Here, a CO2-based polyester was synthesized and utilized to modify bio-based polylactic acid (PLA), resulting in a composite material that exhibits outstanding mechanical properties, enhanced UV resistance, and a rapid degradation rate. Moreover, the introduction of degradable ester backbone has also enabled the composite to be completely degraded under mild conditions to recover lactic acid, achieving closed-loop recycling.