Segmented polyurethanes containing polycaprolactone as soft segment were prepared taking into account the biodegradable character of this compound. The hard block was produced by the reaction between tolylene diisocyanate and a chain extender (1,4 butanediol, sucrose or glucose). The mechanical and dynamical properties were evaluated as a function of the contents of rigid blocks. The results were analyzed on the basis of the intermolecular interactions, mainly H bonds, phase mixture, volume of cyclic chain extenders and crosslinking. These polyurethanes are being studied aiming at the preparation of biodegradable materials with useful mechanical properties.
Polyurethanes; polycaprolactone; biodegradable materials; mechanical properties