Abstract: Disclosed is a biaxially-oriented polyester film produced from a polyester comprising: (1) diacid residues comprising between about 95 and about 100 mole percent of terephthalic acid residues; (2) diol residues comprising between about 95 and about 100 mole percent of 1,4-cyclohexanedimethanol residues; and (3) about 0.5 to about 5 mole percent of another dicarboxylic acid or diol residue, wherein the polyester comprises a total of 100 mole percent diacid residues and a total of 100 mole percent diol residues. In one embodiment, the biaxially-oriented film has a thickness of 70 to 150 microns (3-5 mils). In another embodiment, the biaxially-oriented film undergoes not more than 3% shrinkage when immersed for 10 seconds in a solder bath preheated to 260° C. The film can be made by stretching an essentially amorphous cast film of thickness between about 450-1800 micron (18-70 mil) at a ratio from about 2.5×2.5 to 3.5×3.5 while being held at a temperature between 90° C. and 130° C.

Abstract: Disclosed are void-containing polyester shrink films which show excellent density retention upon exposures to high temperatures. The films have high shrinkage and retain their low density after processing under conditions of temperature and moisture used in typical recycling processes. The films are useful for sleeve label and other shrink film applications, and their lower density allows them to be readily separated from soft drink bottles, food containers and the like during recycling operations. Also disclosed is a process for void-containing polyester shrink films having high shrinkage and low density after exposure to elevated temperatures.

Abstract: Anaerobically biodegradable polyesters, and compositions and articles of manufacture containing the polyesters are described. Polyesters previously thought to be non-biodegradable under anaerobic conditions have been surprisingly and unexpectedly rendered anaerobically biodegradable by controlling the aromatic monomer content in the polyester. These polyesters can be made into fibers, films, non-woven fabrics, and adhesives. They are suitable for use in absorbent articles such as flushable personal hygiene products.

Abstract: Disclosed are polyester compositions having a glass transition temperature of less than about 10° C. comprising (A) at least one polyester comprising aromatic dicarboxylic acid residues and non-aromatic dicarboxylic acids; diols selected from the group consisting of aliphatic diols, polyalkylene ethers, and cycloaliphatic diols; and (B) a plasticizing effective amount of a compatible plasticizer.

Abstract: This invention relates to a blend of biodegradable polymers comprising: (A) about 15% to about 60% by weight of at least one flexible biodegradable polymer (A) having a glass transition less than about 0° C., (B) about 85% to about 40% by weight of at least one rigid biodegradable polymer (B) having a glass transition greater than about 10° C.; said percentages being based on the total weight of the polymer blend; wherein said polymer blend has a unnotched Izod impact strength according to ASTM D256 of at least 9 ft-lbs/in at 23° C. In one embodiment, the polymer blend has a unnotched Izod impact strength according to ASTM D256 at least 20 ft-lbs/in at 23° C.

Abstract: Disclosed are blends of aliphatic-aromatic copolyesters with poly(ethylene-co-vinyl acetate) copolymers and shaped articles prepared therefrom. These blends have higher melt strength than the aliphatic-aromatic copolyester alone and exhibit increased melt strength and better processability. In addition, the blends and shaped articles show bio-disintegration and/or biodegradability in a composting environment.

Abstract: This invention relates to a blend of biodegradable polymers comprising: (A) about 70% to about 80% by weight of at least one flexible biodegradable polymer (A) having a glass transition less than about 0° C., (B) about 30% to about 20% by weight of at least one rigid biodegradable polymer (B) having a glass transition greater than about 10° C.; said percentages being based on the total weight of the polymer blend; wherein said polymer blend has a notched Izod impact strength according to ASTM D256 of at least 7.5 ft-lbs/in.

Abstract: Disclosed are high clarity films produced from semicrystalline polyesters by calendering. These films unexpectedly develop a higher peak melting point, which leads to higher thermal resistance. The semicrystalline polyesters may be biodegradable. When these calendered films are oriented, they develop unexpectedly high physical strength or clarity in comparison to films that are prepared by conventional techniques.