Modification of unsaturated polyesters using polyethylene glycol

Abstract

The fracture toughness and impact resistance of rigid unsaturated polyesters can be modified by various physical and chemical methods. In this study, flexible unsaturated polyesters were prepared by condensation polymerisation of maleic anhydride, phthalic anhydride and propylene glycol in the presence of polyethylene glycol. By this method, copolymers of unsaturated polyesters with polyethylene glycols of different molecular weights were prepared. A two stage process was used for the synthesis, which resulted in segmental structures containing alternating rigid cross-linked segments and linear soft segments displaced regularly in the polymer chain. Properties such as tensile strength, tensile modulus, elongation at break, toughness, impact strength, surface hardness, abrasion resistance and water absorption were tested after the resin was cured in appropriate moulds and compared with those of the control resin. Polyethylene glycols of lower molecular weight (～ 200) impart flexibility to the polyester chains and increase fracture toughness and impact resistance of rigid unsaturated polyester without seriously affecting other properties. Glass reinforced specimens prepared using the modified resin also show improved toughness and elongation at break.