Statistical Process Optimization of Endcapped PET Oligomer Nanocomposites from Off-grade PET

Polymer nanocomposites show many advantages comparing to neat polymers [1]. Among methods of nanocomposite preparation, melt intercalation appears to be the most effectiveprocedure [2]. PET is linear aromatic polyester used in manufacturing materials. However, it is not easy to disperseMMT at nanoscale, because of existence of hydroxyl groups in clay structure that are incompatible with non-polar polymers. In addition, the PET recycling is a significant problem for the protection of environment [3]. Consequently, processes for PET recycling were carried out almost parallelto commercial PET production [4]. In this study, off-grade PET is partially depolymerized to synthesize PET oligomers. Suitable PET oligomer is endcapped via reaction with maleic anhydride (MA)/phthalic Anhydride (PhA) compositions to prepare PET.