Тhe effect of the physico-chemical characteristics of dicarboxylic acid esters on their plasticizing ability

Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) belongs to the most widely used group of thermoplastic materials. The market for PVC-based products is especially rich in plasticized compositions. Plasticizers are the most widespread additives in polymer industry, more than 90% of plasticizers are used in PVC. Among them, phthalates occupy the leading position, due to their good compatibility with PVC and provision of a complex of important technological indicators. However, the assessment of their toxic effect has served as a factor stimulating the restriction of the DOP plasticizer application. Among alternative plasticizers, esters of dicarboxylic acids are known to ensure reduced toxicity and high frost resistance in the resulting compositions. Thereupon, esters of dicarboxylic acids and oxyethylated alcohols have been obtained. Their compatibility with PVC has been investigated. The plasticizing effect of the obtained esters has been evaluated. The thermomechanical characteristics of PVC compositions containing the developed plasticizers have been studied, the glass transition temperature has been determined, and the areas of glassy and highly elastic states of the plastics have been identified. It is shown that the chemical structure of the dicarboxylate used as a plasticizer determines important technological and operational characteristics of the obtained PVC plastics.