Synthesis and properties of an eco-friendly bio-based plasticizer for PVC with enhanced migration resistance

Because the commonly used phthalate plasticizers have adverse effects on the environment and health, there is a need to develop plasticizers with renewable material sources, non-toxic synthesis, and high plasticizing efficiency. In this study, an eco-friendly bio-based plasticizer, ALCE with excellent migration resistance was synthesized using linoleic acid (LA) and cinnamyl alcohol (CA) from biomass. The composition of ALCE was characterized and confirmed using FTIR and 1H NMR. The thermal stability, mechanical properties, and migration resistance of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) films plasticized with ALCE were compared to those plasticized with conventional plasticizers di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DOP) and di(2-ethylhexyl) terephthalate (DOTP). The plasticizing mechanism of ALCE was elucidated through quantum chemical calculations. The initial decomposition temperature of ALCE-50 was found to be 43.66 degrees C higher than that of DOTP-50, making it more suitable for high-temperature applications. In tensile testing, PVC films containing 50 phr of ALCE exhibited an elongation at a break of 730.25%, demonstrating superior mechanical properties. Migration experiments also revealed that the migration quantities of ALCE were lower than those of DOP and DOTP. Overall, ALCE, as a plasticizer, enhances PVC's performance in various aspects and offers a new pathway for the development of eco-friendly plasticizers utilizing biomass resources.