Depolymerization Behavior of PTMG

These results reveal PTMG as a superior recyclable material by the virtue of its controllable conversion into each monomer. 

Nowadays, many bio-based pol5miers are being developed one after another. In particular, recyclable bio-based polymers are of great interest and important materials from both a scientific and an environmental point of view, because bio-based polymers have the specific properties of being excellent feedstock recyclability and carbon neutral, which are advantages that commodity plastics do not possess. 

The bio-based and racemization-free polyester PTMG was synthesized from lactic and pyruvic acids. The high T 206°C ) and Tg(70°C] values of PTMG were confirmed, and the superior resource-recyclability of PTMG was demonstrated showing selective reduction to TMG or methacrylic acid, resulting in the preparation of bio-based PMMA. 

Other some bio-based polymers have been synthesized with good mechanical properties that are in no way inferior and may ultimately surpass those of commodify plastics. If this trend continues, as appears likely, then, in the near future, the circulative use of bio-based polymers will become standard practice in the field of plastic products. 

and Tsuji, H. eds. [2010]. PoIy[Iactic acid] Synthesis, Structures, Properties, Processing, and Applications [John Wiley Sons, Inc., Hoboken, New Jersey]. 

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