Polyester Carbonate (PCL) is a biodegradable polymer synthesized from petrochemicals, easily decomposed by microorganisms and enzymes in nature into water and carbon dioxide. It is formed through ring-opening polymerization of ε-caprolactone in the presence of catalysts such as metal-organic compounds (e.g., tetraphenyltin), and is classified as a polyester.
PCL is a white, opaque solid with a certain degree of rigidity. It boasts excellent biodegradability, drug permeability, and the ability to release medication steadily over a long period. Consequently, PCL is widely used in the production and processing of drug carriers, plasticizers, biodegradable plastics, nanofiber spinning, and molding materials.
1. Biocompatibility
PCL exhibits excellent biocompatibility, allowing cells to grow normally on its scaffold and degrade into CO2 and H2O. As a result, PCL is suitable for applications such as drug delivery carriers, cosmetic materials, vascular stents, sutures, and cell tissue culture scaffolds.
2. Biodegradability
PCL can be fully decomposed into CO2 and H2O in soil and water environments from June to December. However, the current cost is too high, and its application in the degradable plastic field is yet to be developed.
PCL boasts excellent mechanical properties and can be processed through methods such as injection molding, blow molding, pressing, and extrusion. Compared to the commonly used biodegradable plastic polylactic acid (PLA), PCL exhibits superior hydrophobicity.
PCL is applicable to plastic film bags, 3D printing consumables, shoe materials, etc.
3. Excellent compatibility with other high polymer materials
PCL exhibits excellent compatibility with high molecular materials such as PE, PP, ABS, AS, PC, PVAC, PVB, PVE, PA, and natural rubber. Consequently, PCL can serve as a plastic low-temperature impact modifier, an environmentally friendly plasticizer, an organic colorant, and a thermoplastic adhesive.
4. High crystallinity and low melting point
PCL has a high crystallinity, resulting in a slower degradation rate. With a Tg of -60°C, it is extremely soft and highly extensible; its melting point ranges from 60 to 63°C, allowing for low-temperature molding.
