Synthesis and Properties of Novel Biodegradable/Biocompatible Poly[propylene-co-(ethylene succinate)] Random Copolyesters

Random biocompatible/biodegradable poly[propylene-co-(ethylene succinate)]s were prepared. Mechanical properties and crystallization rates decreased with propylene succinate content. Glass transition temperatures (T-g) varied between those for the homopolymers. DSC and TMDSC findings showed that multiple melting behaviour of PPESu samples is related to melting-recrystallization-remelting. WAXD observations, eutectic behaviour, and thermodynamic analysis of the equilibrium melting point depression indicated isodimorphic cocrystallization. The copolymers showed enzymatic hydrolysis rates between those of the homopolymers and cytotoxicity/biocompatibility similar to PLA.