Abstract

Poly(butylene succinate) (PBS) and its copolymers are a family of biodegradable polymers with excellent biodegradability, thermoplastic processability and balanced mechanical properties. In the past ten years, we have contributed to synthesis, processing, characterization and industrialization of PBS and its copolymers. In this talk, I will focus on copolymerization with different types and various amounts of monomers and its effect on crystallization, mechanical properties and biodegradadation rate. In addition, via long chain branching, we can improve the processability of film blowing. Furthermore, we have helped build a factory capable of manufacturing 10000 tons PBS and its copolymers annually in Anhui in 2009 and a facility for 5000 tons of film grade PBS resins in Xiangjiang in 2012.