Kinetic Study of Polyester Derived from Glycolyzed PET Waste With Varied Composition

Abstract

In this investigation, the production of secondary value-added products, such as saturated polyester, derived from the glycolysis of poly(ethyleneterephthalate) (PET) is examined as an effective way for PET recycling. The glycolyzed PET (GPET) obtained was reacted with mixture of phthalic anhydride and glycol with varied composition and their reaction kinetic were studied. During polyesterification it was observed that degree of polymerization (DPn) and extent of reaction (p) is increased, while acid value and hydroxyl are decreased with an increase in the GPET content in the reaction mixture. The well-defined order maintained up to 50% GPET content, beyond it the DPn, and p followed decreasing trend with time.