INFLUENCE OF D-LIMONENE ABSORPTION ON THE PHYSICAL-PROPERTIES OF REFILLABLE PET

The absorption of D-limonene into polyethyleneterephthalate (PET) at d ifferent initial limonene concentrations and storage temperatures and the effect of this addition on the physical properties of PET were inv estigated. Strips of PET were immersed in model solutions (160 and 320 ppm limonene) for 45 days at 5, 22 and 37 degrees C. The level of sor bed D-limonene and PET physical properties (tensile strength, modules of elasticity, and % elongation) were monitored as a function of time. Results indicated that the degree of absorption of D-limonene was dep endent upon storage temperature and initial limonene concentration. Th e majority of limonene was absorbed after 30 days at 22 and 37 degrees C, but at 5 degrees C, less absorption was observed. It was found tha t impact strength and modules of elasticity properties of PET were sig nificantly affected with the level of absorption of D-limonene (at con fidence level 0.05), while the elongation was not influenced. (C) 1998 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.