An overview on the recent developments in reactive plasticizers in polymers

Abstract

This review is about the reactive plasticizer. Plasticizers are small molecules with low molecular weight. These compounds typically have an esteric structure. The plasticizers reduce the glass transition temperature, and the viscosity of the polymer also enhances the flexibility and processability of polymer materials. The main problem of these additives is that, over time, they migrate from the polymeric matrix and exude to the surface of polymeric matrix. As a result, the physical and mechanical properties of the polymer are affected. Various strategies, such as increasing molecular weight of plasticizer, selection of oligomeric structure for plasticizer, and adding nanoparticles of minerals, have been investigated to reduce and eliminate migration. An approach that has recently been of great interest to researchers is the use of reactive plasticizers. In this approach, plasticizers covalently bond to the polymeric chains and prevent migration.