Recent developments in sustainable high Tg (co) polyesters from 2,5-furandicarboxylic acid, isosorbide, and oxalic acid. Performance and social perspectives

Renewable polyesters with a good balance between impact strength and elastic modulus are rare, especially when combined with a high glass transition temperature (Tg). Meeting such performance would enable the substitution of polymers like acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) and polycarbonate with chemically recyclable polyesters from bio-based, CO2based, or recycled sources. Recently, we showed that the low reactivity of isosorbide can be overcome. The synthesized copolyesters are very competitive regarding the goals of Tg, modulus, and impact strength. CO2-based oxalate esters and isosorbide are an intriguing monomer combination. These polyesters offer a combination of outstanding mechanical-, thermal-, and barrier properties in combination with unique home compostability and marine degradability. In this minireview, we will highlight some recent polymer technology developments on high Tg (co)polyesters and we look at the recent behavior of consumers on their willingness to pay for sustainability, which can create a strong market pull that can help to accelerate the plastic materials transition.