No abstract

Bio-based fumaric acid act as a key monomer for the fabrication of high-performance and thermal-induced degradation polymers. Obtained poly(butylene 2,5-furandicarboxylate/ fumarate) copolyesters had a high number-average molecular weight from 27,500 to 37,600 g/mol. Trans C�C bonds and the conjugated effect provide interesting properties. Influenced by the thermal history, the elastic modulus and tensile strength (>50 MPa) are much higher than PBAT. Trans C�C bonds of fumaric acid and intermolecular interactions of furan rings restrict the diffusion of gas and water molecules. Specifically, the water barrier is 4−12 times better than PBAT, filling the gap in biodegradable food packaging. The hydrolysis resistance of fumarate segments provides good durability during their life span. The functionalization of PBFFu by thiol-Michael addition was performed at room temperature. Three substituent groups bring different conditions of pendant amino groups, resulting in the thermal-induced intramolecular cyclization from 40 to 100 °C. Fumaric acid could be a critical point to achieve the coordination of high-performance and temperature-induced degradation.