Clay catalyzed synthesis of bio-degradable poly(glycolic acid)

Glycolic acid was polymerized under vacuum in the presence and absence of nano sized clay. The added clay catalyzed the condensation polymerization which can be confirmed by recording FTIR spectroscopy and intrinsic viscosity (IV) values. The relative intensity of C = O/CH is increased while increasing the amount of clay. DSC showed the appearance of multiple endotherms of poly(glycolic acid). TGA showed the percentage weight residue remain above 750 degrees C for polymer-nano composite system was 21% and hence proved the flame retardancy (char forming) nature. TEM confirmed the nano size of the clay used to catalyze the condensation reaction. The intrinsic viscosity value was increased with the increase of percentage weight of Hectorite type clay.