Solid state polymerization of poly(ethylene terephthalate): Kinetic and property parameters

Abstract The kinetics of solid state polymerization of poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) have been investigated at a variety of conditions. Equations have been developed to describe the relationships of time, temperature, and final molecular weight for PET precursors prepared from specified catalyst and monomer systems. These studies show effects of: time and temperature of solid stating, moisture concentration, oxygen exposure, and nitrogen purge flow rate. Measurements of inherent viscosity, carboxyl end group concentration, melting point, residual acetaldehyde, and acetaldehyde generated during melting are used to monitor molecular weight, purity, and thermal stability of these solid stated resins.