Abstract: The disclosure generally provides high-molecular-weight thermoplastic polyester-based urethanes (TPEUs). In some embodiments, the component monomers of the TPEUs are entirely derived from renewable sources. The disclosure also provides methods of making high-molecular-weight TPEUs, and, in particular, methods for achieving such high molecular weights. The disclosure also provides certain uses of such TPEUs. Entirely lipid-derived segmented thermoplastic TPEU elastomers with rubber-like properties such as low modulus and high elongation were produced by incorporating 1,9-nonanediol (ND) as chain extender with oleic acid derived polyester diols (PEDs) and 1,7-heptamethylene diisocyanate (HPMDI). Enhanced elastomeric properties were achieved by optimizing hydrogen bond density and phase separation of the TPEU via customized polymerization protocols. The novel TPEUs showed extensive degradation under hydrothermal ageing in water at 80° C. and achieved a tensile half-life in one day of immersion.

Abstract: The disclosure generally provides high-molecular-weight thermoplastic polyester-based urethanes (TPEUs). In some embodiments, the component monomers of the TPEUs are entirely derived from renewable sources. The disclosure also provides methods of making high-molecular-weight TPEUs, and, in particular, methods for achieving such high molecular weights. The disclosure also provides certain uses of such TPEUs. High molecular weight, semi-crystalline TPEU elastomers were synthesized from polyester diols (PEDs) and 1,7 heptamethylene diisocyanate (HPMDI) both derived from oleic acid. Functional group stoichiometry and polymerization time were used as tools to control molecular weight and optimize the thermal and mechanical properties of the TPEU. A targeted range of PEDs with controlled molecular weights and narrow polydispersity indices were obtained in high yields using an induced stoichiometric imbalance method. The PEDs were reacted with HPMDI with different NCO:OH ratios (1.1 to 2.

Abstract: The synthesis of certain polyester diols (PEDs) is disclosed. This application also discloses the purification and polymerization kinetics of lipid based PEDs. Molecular weight and distribution controls were achieved by initial and induced stoichiometric imbalance and optimization of the purification protocol. Thermal degradation and thermal transition behavior of the PEDs were also investigated by TGA and DSC.

Abstract: The synthesis of certain polyester diols (PEDs) is disclosed. This application also discloses the purification and polymerization kinetics of lipid based PEDs. Molecular weight and distribution controls were achieved by initial and induced stoichiometric imbalance and optimization of the purification protocol. Thermal degradation and thermal transition behavior of the PEDs were also investigated by TGA and DSC.