English Abstract

Synthesis of Biodegradable Thermoplastic Elastomers

Yuushou NAKAYAMA
Takeshi SHIONO
Department of Applied Chemistry, Graduate School of Engineering, Hiroshima University, Higashi-Hiroshima, Hiroshima, Japan
Nippon Gomu Kyokaishi,(2012),85(7),229-233 General Review in Japanese

This review article describes recently developed biodegradable thermoplastic elastomers based on poly(lactide)(PLA). Synthesis and properties of several triblock copolymers, PLA-b-(soft segment)-b-PLA, are discussed, where the soft segments are various polymers with low glass transition temperature. Both of completely and partially biodegradable copolymers are covered.

Keywords: Thermoplastic Elastomer, Biodegradable Polymers, Block Copolymers, Poly (L-lactide)