Seminar Dr. Jihoon Shin [CO₂& Energy Research Center, KRICT] - Designer Lactide-Derived Poly(or Oligo)mers in KRICT: Toughening, Plasticiza
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Date: 2024/10/10 (THU) 5PM
Venue: Science Hall B130
Abstract: Poly(lactide) (PLA) is a renewable, degradable (or compostable), and thermoplastic with the mechanical properties similar to poly(styrene). Unfortunately, PLA is inherently brittle and possesses poor melt strength. In particular, the fragileness of PLA limits its current use for disposable packing. Melt blends between PLA and rubbery materials can toughen the plastic. Recent efforts introduce copolymer architectures with a majority PLA block and minority rubbery block with phase separation on nanoscale, in which precise molecular design is also needed. To achieve the hierarchically structured (multi)block, graft, and star-shape copolymers for sustainability, toughening, plasticization, and biodegradability, various architectures prepared via controlled polymerization/oligomerization, post-functionalization, and cross-linking should be developed.