Article
Polymer Science
Maryam Safari, Ricardo A. Perez Camargo, Laura Ballester-Bayarri, Guoming Liu, Agurtzane Mugica, Manuela Zubitur, Dujin Wang, Alejandro J. Mueller
Summary: This study explores the possibility of blending PBS and PCL with BSxCLy copolymers and systematically studies the crystallization behavior of the blends. The results show that the PBS/BS78CL22 blend exhibits good miscibility at high PBS content, while the PCL/BS15CL85 blend still displays partial miscibility at high PCL content. The BS46CL54 copolymer can crystallize in both PBS and PCL type crystals, depending on the polymeric matrix.
Article
Polymer Science
Zhipeng Sun, Zhiguo Jiang, Zhaobin Qiu
Summary: In this research, the thermal, crystallization, and mechanical properties of branched PBS copolymers (PBDS) were systematically investigated and it was found that branching did not modify the crystallization mechanism, but significantly improved the elongation at break and decreased the Young's modulus and tensile strength of the copolymers.
Article
Crystallography
Cong Chen, Xue-Wen Zhang, Hai-Mu Ye
Summary: The introduction of 2-ureido-4[1H]-pyrimidinone (UPy) units as end groups in interacting telechelic poly(butylene succinate) (PBS-UPy) oligomers has been shown to increase primary nucleation density and promote nucleation, while reducing spherulite growth rate. The impact of UPy stacks on nucleation ability changes from inhibition to promotion with respect to molecular weight (M(n)), leading to a significant increase in nucleation density even under an initial inhibition of nucleation ability. The change in the impact of UPy stacks on nucleation ability is speculated to originate from the memory expression feasibility of ordered conformation in the melt during crystallization.
Article
Polymer Science
Carlos Perez-Valdez, Guillermina Burillo, Rodrigo Navarro, Angel Marcos-Fernandez
Summary: PBS and PBSA were irradiated with gamma radiation up to a dose of 400 kGy, resulting in the formation of gel content. PBSA exhibited higher gel content compared to PBS. Analysis revealed that chain scission predominated over crosslinking. Branching and chain scission increased the dispersity and affected the molecular weight. NMR analysis showed the appearance of new species and changes in species with increasing dose. The thermal properties, especially crystallization temperature, were significantly affected by irradiation. Mechanical properties of both polymers were greatly reduced, making them fragile even at low doses.
Article
Polymer Science
Akihiko Toda, Yoshitomo Furushima, Christoph Schick
Summary: The relationship between changes in crystallization kinetics and crystal domains of poly(butylene terephthalate) was investigated under isothermal conditions. The study found that the nucleation and growth kinetics of the crystal domains exhibited a continuous change within a certain temperature range. This change corresponded to the nucleation mode for spherical domains, such as spherulites and nodules, which depended on whether nucleation occurred from foreign heterogeneities or from the homogeneous melt. The morphology of the crystal domains, specifically the size and formation of spherulites and granular nodules, was identified as a factor contributing to the changes in crystallization kinetics.
Article
Polymer Science
Akihiko Toda, Yoshitomo Furushima, Christoph Schick
Summary: The relationship between the changes in the crystallization kinetics and the crystal domains of poly(butylene terephthalate) was investigated under isothermal conditions. The Avrami exponent n characterizing the nucleation and growth kinetics of the crystal domains exhibited a continuous change within the target temperature range, indicating a change in the nucleation mode for spherical domains. The morphology of the crystal domains responsible for this change was identified, with a continuous change in the size of spherulites observed. The formation of 10 nm scale granular nodules with high nuclei density at low temperatures was also observed.
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Panagiotis A. Klonos, Nikolaos D. Bikiaris, Alexandra Zamboulis, Miguel angel Valera, Ana Mangas, Apostolos Kyritsis, Zoi Terzopoulou
Summary: Two series of sustainable block copolymers based on poly(butylene succinate) (PBSu) and polylactide (PLA) were studied. The effects of PBSu/PLA ratio, chain length, and initial PBSu length on thermal transitions and crystallization of copolymers were investigated. The addition of PBSu improved the performance and degradability of the copolymers, as observed through calorimetry and dielectric spectroscopy.
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Maria Cristina Righetti, Maria Laura Di Lorenzo, Patrizia Cinelli, Massimo Gazzano
Summary: The study quantified the temperature evolution of the constrained or rigid amorphous fraction (RAF) of PBS, indicating that at room temperature and at human body temperature, all amorphous fraction is mobile. This information is important for the development of PBS products for various applications.
Article
Thermodynamics
Todsapol Kajornprai, Kalyanee Sirisinha
Summary: The influence of post-process annealing treatment on the structural and thermal behaviors of poly(L-lactic acid)/poly(butylene succinate) (PLLA/PBS) blend was investigated. It was found that the temperature and addition of plasticizer can significantly affect the crystalline structure and melting behavior of the samples. Multiple melting behaviors observed were attributed to simultaneous melting, recrystallization, and remelting of PLLA and PBS crystals in the blends.
JOURNAL OF THERMAL ANALYSIS AND CALORIMETRY
(2021)
Article
Polymer Science
Hideaki Ono, Hiroyuki Minamikawa, Koji Nemoto, Masaru Yoshida
Summary: A novel PBS-b-PA4 diblock copolymer was designed and synthesized in this study, with its chemical structure, self-assembly behavior, and emulsifying properties characterized through various experiments. The copolymer formed micelle-like colloidal particles in chloroform and exhibited birefringent and fluid liquid crystalline phase in 1,1,2,2-tetrachloroethane, demonstrating potential as a compatibilizer for binary resin blends.
EUROPEAN POLYMER JOURNAL
(2022)
Article
Polymer Science
Rene Androsch, Katalee Jariyavidyanont, Andreas Janke, Christoph Schick
Summary: In this study, the melt-crystallization process of PBS under different melt-supercooling conditions was analyzed using X-ray scattering techniques, microscopy, and fast scanning chip calorimetry. It was found that lamellar thickening is not the main mechanism of isothermal secondary crystallization, and low-temperature crystallization leads to the presence of crystal defects.
Article
Polymer Science
Hsu-I. Mao, Li-Yuan Wang, Chin-Wen Chen, Kai-Hung Hsu, Cheng-Hang Tsai, Chia-Jung Cho, Yang-Yen Yu, Syang-Peng Rwei, Chi-Ching Kuo
Summary: Isothermal and nonisothermal crystallization kinetics studies showed that a small amount of glycerol can enhance the crystallization rate and relative crystallinity of PBSPS copolymers, while excessive glycerol can restrict the movement of molecular chains and decrease the relative crystallinity.
JOURNAL OF POLYMER RESEARCH
(2021)
Article
Polymer Science
Tianqi Yue, Huanbo Wang, Yuan Fu, Shiyu Guo, Xuefeng Zhang, Tian Liu
Summary: In this study, TiO2-incorporated RS/PBS biocomposites were prepared with different TiO2 powder loadings, with 1% TiO2 showing the best mechanical and crystallization properties. Both rice straw fiber and TiO2 acted as nucleating agents for PBS, improving its crystallization and mechanical properties significantly.
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Ahmed Nasr, Petr Svoboda
Summary: The fusion temperature has a tremendous effect on the crystallization kinetics of PBT. The crystallization peak shifted towards lower temperatures by 22 °C and the kinetics changed about ten times. Increasing fusion temperature led to a noticeable shift in the heat flow curve towards lower temperatures, indicating a significant change in the number of nucleation centres. The study provides insights into the crystallization behaviour of PBT at different fusion temperatures and cooling rates.
Review
Polymer Science
Massimiliano Barletta, Clizia Aversa, Muhammad Ayyoob, Annamaria Gisario, Kotiba Hamad, Mehrshad Mehrpouya, Henri Vahabi
Summary: The development of biodegradable and compostable materials, such as polybutylene succinate (PBS), as alternatives to fossil-based plastics is highly important. PBS is a compostable aliphatic polyester with good mechanical strength and thermal resistance. However, it is often blended with other polymers, fillers, and additives to improve processability and mechanical performance. Recent advances in polymer blending processes have made PBS blends an interesting material platform for applications requiring a balance of mechanical strength, flexibility, thermal resistance, and compostability.
PROGRESS IN POLYMER SCIENCE
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Xiao Wang, Jialin He, Qunmei Wei, Yang Zhang, Yu Li, Zhen Zhang, Wei Zhao, Guofu Zhou
Summary: This study systematically investigates the influence of molecular weight on the helical twisting power (HTP) of chiral oligomers used as chiral dopants, establishing a relationship between HTP value and molecular weight that depends on molecular structure. These insights could aid in developing analytical methods for functional devices based on chiral liquid crystal polymers.
JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR LIQUIDS
(2021)
Article
Polymer Science
Xiulan Yang, Minzhao Gu, Qunmei Wei, Yang Zhang, Sihan Wu, Qin Wu, Xiaowen Hu, Wei Zhao, Guofu Zhou
Summary: In this study, a simple strategy of adding a solvent developing step into the photo-embossing process was demonstrated to improve the aspect ratios of the structures. The method was shown to be effective even in thin films, and compatible with other methods used for enhancing the aspect ratios. The surface relief structures fabricated were also utilized in liquid crystal devices, and their performance in visible light regulation was investigated.
Article
Energy & Fuels
Xiaoyu Meng, Yinan Lv, Jihong Wen, Xiaojing Li, Luman Peng, Chuanbo Cong, Haimu Ye, Qiong Zhou
Summary: In this study, a sandwiched membrane called PFSA@PAN/TpPa-SO3H was prepared by synthesizing covalent organic frameworks (COFs) on three-dimensional PAN nanofibers and introducing them into PFSA membranes. The PFSA@PAN/TpPa-SO3H-5 composite membrane showed outstanding proton conductivity and dimensional stability, making it a promising material for proton exchange membranes.
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Jiaxin Hou, Guiying Long, Wei Zhao, Guofu Zhou, Danqing Liu, Dirk J. Broer, Ben L. Feringa, Jiawen Chen
Summary: Recent developments in artificial molecular machines have allowed for precise control of molecular motion at the nanoscale. However, amplifying this motion to induce macroscopic motion remains a challenge. In this study, we successfully integrated synthetic molecular machines into liquid crystal networks, resulting in complex motion such as bending, wave-like motion, and synchronized helical motion. This research paves the way for the future design of responsive materials with enhanced complex functions.
JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN CHEMICAL SOCIETY
(2022)
Article
Polymer Science
Yi Li, Jihong Wen, Tianyu Wu, Cheng Cao, Xiaoyu Meng, Hai-Mu Ye
Summary: This study introduces an immiscible PA11 as a toughening agent in the PCTFE matrix to improve its toughness without sacrificing other performance. The optimal performance is achieved with 5 wt% PA11, where the elongation at break and impact strength are increased by approximately 3 and 1.9 times, respectively, without obvious reduction in other mechanical performance. PA11 also enhances the primary nucleation and crystallization ability of PCTFE, and the toughening effect is confirmed at ultra-low temperature of approximately -196 degrees C.
JOURNAL OF APPLIED POLYMER SCIENCE
(2022)
Article
Polymer Science
Yu-Pei Tian, Tianyu Wu, Xiaoyu Meng, Hai-Mu Ye
Summary: The thermodynamic features of extended-chain crystals are crucial for understanding the crystallization behavior of polymer materials. However, accurately determining the melting points and enthalpies of fusion of extended-chain crystals remains a challenge. In this study, we successfully prepared extended-chain crystals of poly(butylene succinate) and its copolymer using inclusion complexes with urea, and directly determined their melting points and enthalpies of fusion. These findings provide valuable insights into the properties of polymer extended-chain crystals.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Xue-Wei Wei, Cong Chen, Tian-Yu Wu, Li-Hai Cai, Hai-Mu Ye
Summary: Co-crystallization is crucial for integrating and regulating thermal and mechanical properties in polymer blends. However, poor compatibility between components in the crystal phase has hindered co-crystallization. In this study, we propose a method using 2-ureido-4[1H]-pyrimidinone (UPy)-functionalized polymers to connect different chain ends, promoting co-crystallization and inhibiting phase separation. This work enhances our understanding of co-crystallization in crystalline/crystalline polymer blends.
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Xiaoyu Meng, Yinan Lv, Lei Ding, Luman Peng, Qiwang Peng, Chuanbo Cong, Haimu Ye, Qiong Zhou
Summary: This study investigates the optimization of proton exchange membranes (PEMs) by incorporating COFs with different functional groups into the SPEEK matrix. The results show that the sulfonic acid group significantly improves proton conductivity, while the pyridine group enhances dimensional stability. Combining the benefits of sulfonic acid and pyridine groups leads to composite membranes with higher conductivity and lower swelling ratio.
Article
Polymer Science
Tiantian Song, Xiaoxue Wu, Jun Xu, Haimu Ye, Weichao Shi
Summary: The study investigates solvent evaporation-induced crystallization in poly(ethylene oxide) sessile droplets and reveals a two-level optical birefringence in the dried film. It is found that evaporation-induced shear flow promotes crystal growth in the radial direction, leading to the formation of anisotropic spherulites with noncentrosymmetric orientation-sensitive birefringence. The findings shed light on the evaporation-induced crystallization in polymer droplets and provide a generic method for creating anisotropic crystal patterns using droplet-processing techniques.
Article
Polymer Science
Lu-Lu Yang, Xue-Wei Wei, Tianyu Wu, Xiaoyu Meng, Hai-Mu Ye
Summary: Isomorphism is a unique co-crystallization behavior of random copolymers that allows regulating crystalline structure and performance without loss of crystallinity. Incorporating butylene adipate (BA) into a model system of poly(butylene succinate-ran-butylene fumarate) (PBSF) forms PBSFA terpolymers, which exhibit different crystallization features. The addition of BA influences the accommodation capacities of butylene succinate (BS) and butylene fumarate (BF) in the isomorphic lattice, leading to a reversal of their preferences. This study provides insight into the differentiation of co-monomeric units in the isomorphic lattice and the manipulation of isomorphism.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Jia-Yao Chen, Xue-Wen Zhang, Tian-Yu Wu, Hai-Mu Ye
Summary: By forming inclusion complexes with small molecules, co-crystallization behavior in polymer blends can be promoted, leading to the preparation of new polymeric materials.
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Yi Cui, Yang Sui, Peng Wei, Yinan Lv, Chuanbo Cong, Xiaoyu Meng, Hai-Mu Ye, Qiong Zhou
Summary: Research on rheological performance and mechanism of polymer nanocomposites (PNCs) mainly focuses on non-polar polymer matrices, but rarely on strongly polar ones. This paper investigates the influence of nanofillers on the rheological properties of poly (vinylidene difluoride) (PVDF). Through TEM, DLS, DMA, and DSC analysis, the effects of particle diameter and content on the microstructure, rheology, crystallization, and mechanical properties of PVDF/SiO2 were analyzed. The results demonstrate that nanoparticles can significantly reduce the entanglement degree and viscosity of PVDF (up to 76%), without affecting the hydrogen bonds of the matrix, explained by selective adsorption theory. Additionally, uniformly dispersed nanoparticles can promote the crystallization and mechanical properties of PVDF. Overall, the viscosity regulation mechanism of nanoparticles for non-polar polymers is also applicable to PVDF, which is of great value for exploring the rheological behavior of PNCs and guiding the process of polymers.
Article
Nanoscience & Nanotechnology
Yang Zhang, Qi Zhan, Changrui Wang, Jie Gao, Guofu Zhou, Wei Zhao, Jiawen Chen
Summary: By utilizing reversible addition-fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization reactions, the polymer network structure in polymer-stabilized liquid crystals (PSLCs) can be regulated, resulting in increased elasticity and durability.
ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Chunxia Wang, Hanyuan Dong, Xiaoming Zhang, Yutong Wang, Tongjun Shen, Jiawei Wen, Wang Yang, Guoyong Huang, Haimu Ye, Yongfeng Li, Shengming Xu
Summary: Single-crystal LiNi1-x-yCoxMnyO2 (NCM) cathode materials are successfully prepared from commercial precursors through a multi-step molten salt method. The resulting single crystal NCM622 cathode exhibits an octahedral structure with a high specific discharge capacity and excellent capacity retention during cycling. The cathode also shows outstanding stability and intact crystal structure after 1000 cycles. This work provides an economical strategy for fabricating single-crystal NCM cathode materials with extra-long-cycle performance and paves the way for large-scale production in the vehicle industry.
JOURNAL OF MATERIALS CHEMISTRY A
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Yang Sui, Yi Cui, Peng Wei, Chuanbo Cong, Xiaoyu Meng, Hai-Mu Ye, Qiong Zhou
Summary: Considering the molar mass as an intrinsic property, increasing the molar mass also increases the number of entanglements per chain in ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE), making it difficult to process. To address this, TiO2 nanoparticles with different characteristics were dispersed in UHMWPE solutions to disentangle the molecular chains. The resulting UHMWPE/TiO2 composites exhibited improved processability and mechanical properties compared to pure UHMWPE.