Article
Polymer Science
Toan Van Nguyen, Toshiteru Nagata, Kosei Noso, Kenshiro Kaji, Hiroyasu Masunaga, Taiki Hoshino, Takaaki Hikima, Shinichi Sakurai, Kenta Yamamoto, Yuta Miura, Takashi Aoki, Hideki Yamane, Sono Sasaki
Summary: The study found that increasing the content of 3-hydroxyhexanoate in PHBHs led to a decrease in nucleation rate and crystallization rate, impacting the formation process of crystal structures.
Article
Polymer Science
Tatiana G. Volova, Mayya V. Uspenskaya, Evgeniy G. Kiselev, Aleksey G. Sukovatyi, Natalia O. Zhila, Aleksander D. Vasiliev, Ekaterina I. Shishatskaya
Summary: The properties of P(3HB-co-3HHx) copolymers with different monomer ratios synthesized by different strains were studied. The copolymer samples had reduced crystallinity degree, weight average molecular weight, and increased polydispersity compared to P(3HB). The industrial sample exhibited differences in thermal behavior and crystallization compared to the wild-type strain sample. The study of thermal properties and crystallization mechanism of P(3HB-co-3HHx) copolymers is important for improving polymer processing technologies.
Article
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Zhijie Xia, Haoyuan Zhao, Yahui Li, Yi-ming Ma, Fucheng Tian, Wei Chen
Summary: The study investigated the stress-induced crystallization and transformation mechanism of the beta-form of P(3HB-co-4HB) during stress loading and unloading processes. It was found that specific conditions are required for the formation of the beta-form, which can enhance the overall performance of PHAs.
ACS APPLIED POLYMER MATERIALS
(2021)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Mayuko Mishima, Shiro Takeda, Masaki Nagane, Takehito Suzuki, Masaya Ogata, Ayaka Shima, Naoyuki Aihara, Junichi Kamiie, Rimina Suzuki, Hinano Mizugaki, Yuko Okamatsu-Ogura, Takumi Satoh, Tadashi Yamashita
Summary: Obesity is a global health problem caused by various factors and is associated with multiple health disorders. The gut microbiota plays a crucial role in these diseases and has become a therapeutic target. In this study, we found that the prebiotic PHB could effectively alleviate obesity-associated dyslipidemia by promoting beneficial gut bacteria and suppressing fatty degradation and oxidative stress in the liver.
Article
Polymer Science
Tao Zhang, Yunjae Jang, Eunhye Lee, Sooan Shin, Ho-Jong Kang
Summary: This study investigates the supercritical carbon dioxide foaming characteristics of the biodegradable polymer P(3HB-co-4HB) for environmentally friendly packaging materials. The effect of the 4HB composition on the foaming conditions, such as pressure and temperature, is studied, and the resulting foam density and expansion ratio are evaluated. Increasing the 4HB content reduces the crystallinity and tan delta value required for foam cell growth. Lower foaming temperatures are needed to maintain a suitable tan delta value. However, foaming is not possible when the 4HB content exceeds 50% due to a high tan delta value. Crystalline P(3HB-co-4HB) with low 4HB content results in lower foam density and higher expansion ratio compared to non-crystalline P(3HB-co-4HB) with high 4HB content. The addition of a chain extender slightly increases the expansion ratio by reducing crystallinity and tan delta, most effectively with a 4HB content of 16%.
Article
Polymer Science
Yushuang Miao, Chenxia Fang, Dan Shi, Yiguo Li, Zongbao Wang
Summary: The coupling effects of boron nitride (BN) addition and heat treatment on the crystallization and mechanical properties of poly (3-hydroxybutyric-co-3-hydroxyvaleric acid) (PHBV) were investigated. BN addition significantly increased the nucleation density and cold crystallization temperature, thus increasing the crystallization rate of PHBV. The heat treatment rearranged the molecular chain of PHBV, promoting the uniform distribution of amorphous layers and reducing molecular chain entanglement, contributing to improved toughness of PHBV and PHBV/BN composites.
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Khunanya Janchai, Takumitsu Kida, Masayuki Yamaguchi, Takenobu Sunagawa, Tetsuo Okura
Summary: The study focuses on the influence of thermal and shear histories on the crystallization rate of poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyhexanoate) (PHBHHx). The shear history has a significant effect on the crystallization rate when the shear rate exceeds the critical value. Spherulite texture can be clearly observed even after the formation of extended chain crystals.
SCIENTIFIC REPORTS
(2023)
Article
Polymer Science
Ana M. Diez-Pascual
Summary: PHB, a biodegradable and biocompatible polymer, has low thermal stability, poor impact resistance and lacks antibacterial activity. Blending with other biodegradable polymers to form PHBHHx can improve these issues, however, PHBHHx shows reduced stiffness and poorer barrier properties. To enhance the properties, researchers prepared biodegradable PHBHHx/GO nanocomposites via a solvent casting method, which showed increased mechanical properties and antibacterial activity, offering new perspectives for food packaging.
Article
Polymer Science
Julie Bossu, Nicolas Le Moigne, Philippe Dieudonne-George, Loic Dumazert, Valerie Guillard, Helene Angellier-Coussy
Summary: The study aimed to understand the influence of processing temperature on PHBV, and adjusting processing conditions based on HV content is critical to achieve functional properties for specific applications.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Pengwu Xu, Qian Wang, Manman Yu, Weijun Yang, Yunxuan Weng, Weifu Dong, Mingqing Chen, Yang Wang, Piming Ma
Summary: By utilizing high melting point poly (3-hydroxybutyrate) as a nucleating agent and controlling the processing temperature and PHB content, the crystallization rate and crystal nucleus density of PHBH can be significantly increased, while secondary crystallization is inhibited, improving its mechanical performance and storage stability.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF BIOLOGICAL MACROMOLECULES
(2021)
Article
Polymer Science
Tianyu Wu, Sivasurender Chandran, Yao Zhang, Tianze Zheng, Thomas Pfohl, Jun Xu, Guenter Reiter
Summary: This study investigates the characteristics of the critical primary nucleus in polymer crystallization using a combination of experimental and simulation models. The results suggest that classical nucleation theory may not be applicable for weakly supersaturated solutions.
Article
Chemistry, Analytical
Cassio Lima, Howbeer Muhamadali, Royston Goodacre
Summary: Phenotypic heterogeneity is a major concern in bacterial populations used for industrial bioprocessing. This study introduces optical photothermal infrared spectroscopy as a novel technique to probe phenotypic heterogeneity within Bacillus strains at the single-cell level. By monitoring the production of bioplastic, the variability in PHB content within bacterial cells can be evaluated, aiding in the development of high-yield bioprocesses.
ANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY
(2023)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Xiaonan Chen, Xiangyang Li, Zeshuang Qiao, Hao Xiu, Hongwei Bai
Summary: This study demonstrates that the addition of N,N'-dicyclohexyl-2,6-naphthalenedicarboxamide (TMB) significantly enhances the crystallization and storage stability of poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyhexanoate) (PHBHHx). The crystallinity of the injection-molded products is increased, and the dimensional stability is improved.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF BIOLOGICAL MACROMOLECULES
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Yota Watabe, Shunsuke Shimomura, Koyo Ono, Yuji Sasanuma
Summary: This study conducted a conformational analysis of the biosynthetic and biodegradable polymer P3HV. The results showed that the structural difference in the side chain of P3HV compared to P3HB led to greater conformational flexibility and a lower melting point. Additionally, P3HV was found to have the potential for rubber-like properties.
PHYSICAL CHEMISTRY CHEMICAL PHYSICS
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Peter Zytner, Akhilesh Kumar Pal, Feng Wu, Arturo Rodriguez-Uribe, Amar K. Mohanty, Manjusri Misra
Summary: This study investigates the structure-property relationship in biodegradable poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV)/poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT) blends. It is found that adding 50 wt% PBAT can modify the brittleness of PHBV and create a co-continuous structure, significantly improving the toughness of the blends. The blending of the two polymers with different composition ratios allows for tailoring the properties for different processing methods and applications.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Maria Rosaria Caputo, Asier Olmos, Bo Li, Jorge L. Olmedo-Martinez, Anna Malafronte, Claudio De Rosa, Haritz Sardon, Rachel K. O'Reilly, Andrew P. Dove, Alejandro J. Mueller
Summary: This paper reports the synthesis, morphology, and crystallization kinetics of a scarcely studied polyester, polyheptalactone (PHL). The study reveals that the molecular weight of PHL significantly affects the crystallization rate, with higher molecular weight samples showing faster crystallization. The crystallization behavior and morphology of PHL also show strong similarities with polycaprolactone (PCL), suggesting that PHLs have potential as biodegradable materials.
Article
Polymer Science
Miren Aguirre, Nicholas Ballard, Edurne Gonzalez, Shaghayegh Hamzehlou, Haritz Sardon, Marcelo Calderon, Maria Paulis, Radmila Tomovska, Damien Dupin, Ren H. Bean, Timothy E. Long, Jose R. Leiza, Jose M. Asua
Summary: The water-based emulsion polymerization process has led to the continuous growth in commercial use of polymer colloids due to its high efficiency and versatility in production. This perspective highlights the challenges in synthesis and application of polymer colloids, including the transition towards sustainable feedstocks and reduced environmental impact in their primary applications, as well as the design and application of novel polymer colloids in emerging areas. Unconventional processing techniques utilizing the unique colloidal nature are also presented.
Article
Polymer Science
Ruth N. Schmarsow, Ulises Casado, Marcelo Ceolin, Ileana A. Zucchi, Alejandro J. Mueller, Walter F. Schroeder
Summary: There is increasing interest in the study of supramolecular networks formed by self-assembly of amphiphilic molecules due to their responsive behavior to external stimuli. Embedding these networks into polymer matrices can lead to functional polymers with various applications. This study investigates the behavior of supramolecular networks in a rubbery polymer matrix and reveals the influence of diffusional and topological limitations on the dynamics and crystallization within the network. Mechanical tests show that the deformation capacity of these materials can be precisely tuned by programming the temperature within the melting range of the supramolecular network.
Article
Materials Science, Characterization & Testing
Jordana K. Palacios, Rose Mary Michell, Alejandro J. Mueller
Summary: This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the crystallization behavior and self-assembly of block copolymers with up to four potentially crystallizable phases. It discusses the factors affecting the development of crystalline structures and highlights recent advances in block copolymer crystallization. The article also explores the influence of different molecular architectures, as well as the role of nanofillers and additives in the crystallization process.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Maria Rosaria Caputo, Changxia Shi, Xiaoyan Tang, Haritz Sardon, Eugene Y. -X. Chen, Alejandro J. Muller
Summary: Among the polyester family, poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) (PHB) has the greatest industrial potential. It can be produced biologically or chemically. However, its poor mechanical properties limit its commercial use. This study investigates the properties of copolymers of PHB and poly(epsilon-caprolactone) (PCL), which can improve the mechanical properties of PHB while maintaining its biodegradability. The presence of PCL in the copolymers affects the thermal parameters, crystallization kinetics, and morphology of PHB. The results show that copolymerization can tailor the thermal properties, morphology, and crystallization kinetics of PHB, potentially improving its processing, optical, and mechanical properties.
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Saul Vallejos, Miriam Trigo-Lopez, Haritz Sardon, Jose Manuel Gonzalez-Martin, Sara Gonzalez-Moreno, Jose M. Garcia
Summary: We developed polyurethane adhesives with superior thermal and hydrolytic stability, focusing on their importance in industrial productivity. By creating polyurethane prepolymers with metal-free acid:base organic catalysts, we achieved stability in varying temperatures. Among the tested catalysts, the one based on 1-naphthoic acid exhibited exceptional stability, lasting at least 3 hours at 60 degrees C and 65% relative humidity. The adhesives showed excellent hydrolytic and thermal stability, proving their potential for panel manufacturing.
CONSTRUCTION AND BUILDING MATERIALS
(2023)
Article
Polymer Science
Leire Sangroniz, Maryam Safari, Antxon Martinez de Ilarduya, Haritz Sardon, Dario Cavallo, Alejandro J. Mueller
Summary: This study investigates the effect of incorporating a second comonomer unit in the crystalline unit cell on the melt memory effect of a major component in a random isodimorphic copolymer. It is found that even small amounts of the second comonomer unit significantly reduce the melt memory effect of the copolymers. This reduction is attributed to the disruption of intermolecular interactions and the reduction in self-nucleation capacity caused by the incorporation of the second comonomer unit in the polymer chain.
Article
Polymer Science
Yilong Liao, Ricardo A. Perez-Camargo, Haritz Sardon, Antxon Martinez de Ilarduya, Wenxian Hu, Guoming Liu, Dujin Wang, Alejandro J. Muller
Summary: In this study, poly(hexamethylene-ran-octamethylene carbonate) copolycarbonates were synthesized and found to exhibit higher crystallinities than the parent components. A new crystalline phase different from the homopolymers was also discovered. Through experimental and structural characterization, the unique thermal behavior of the copolymers was confirmed. This finding challenges the concept of isodimorphism.
Article
Polymer Science
Magdalena Gora, Sebastian Coba-Daza, Enrico Carmeli, Davide Tranchida, Andreas Albrecht, Alejandro J. Muller, Dario Cavallo
Summary: In blends of polyethylene (PE) as the minor component dispersed in a polypropylene (PP) matrix, increasing the crystallization temperature of the PP matrix enhances the crystallization rate of PE by promoting epitaxial nucleation at the interface. This study investigates the behavior of different industrially produced PE grades in immiscible blends with PP as the matrix.
Article
Polymer Science
Yilong Liao, Li Pan, Zhe Ma, Dario Cavallo, Guoming Liu, Dujin Wang, Alejandro J. Mueller
Summary: The influence of a novel comonomer ODPA on the crystallization and self-nucleation behavior of isotactic polypropylene copolymers was studied. The results showed that ODPA incorporation significantly slowed down the crystallization kinetics and led to a sharp increase in nucleation density, resulting in smaller spherulitic superstructures. Moreover, ODPA induced a strong melt memory effect that persisted even above the equilibrium melting temperature for certain ODPA content ranges.
Article
Polymer Science
I. Razquin, A. Iregui, M. Cobos, J. Latasa, A. Eceiza, K. Gonzales, L. Martin, A. J. Muller, A. Gonzalez, L. Irusta
Summary: Epoxy/polycaprolactone (PCL) blends with cationic photo-initiator were prepared by solution and melt blending, and processed using various techniques including solvent casting, solution electrospinning, melt electrowriting, and Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) 3D printing. The shape memory properties varied depending on the processing technique, with electrospun fibers showing optimal fixity and recovery ratios. AFM images revealed different morphologies for different processing techniques, with electrospun mats exhibiting Shish-Kebab-type crystalline morphology and superior solvent resistance properties. The electrospun mats also showed high affinity towards chloroform, suggesting potential applications as chloroform sensors.
Article
Energy & Fuels
Qian Zhang, Zhenchao Li, Guangqi Wu, Xiaoyan Tang, Hailong Lu
Summary: A series of novel amphiphilic poly(amino acid)s (PAAs) were synthesized and evaluated as kinetic hydrate inhibitors. The PAAs with more hydrophobic groups showed lower hydrate onset temperatures in slow constant cooling tests. The oxidized polymethionines exhibited excellent hydrate crystal growth inhibition compared to conventional inhibitors PVP and PVCap. Molecular dynamics simulations revealed that the more hydrophobic PAAs were more efficient in preventing methane dissolution and water diffusion, leading to better hydrate inhibition performance.
GAS SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING
(2023)
Article
Polymer Science
Shaofan Li, Weilong Ju, Guoming Liu, Yunlan Su, Alejandro J. Muller, Dujin Wang
Summary: The properties of polymer nanocomposites (PNCs) are dependent on the dispersion of nanoparticles within the polymer matrix. This study investigates the dispersion and crystallization behaviors of PE/HDPE1289-g-SiO2 PNCs in different polyethylene (PE) matrices. The results show that the dispersion of HDPE1289-g-SiO2 nanoparticles is influenced by the P/N parameter and the similarity between the grafted and matrix polymer chain structures.
