Controlled degradation of biocomposites ENR/PCL containing natural antioxidants

The 21st century is witnessing a return to green polymers made from renewable raw materials due to crude oil shortage and to ecological reasons. The main polymers meeting such conditions include aliphatic polyesters or biopolymers, the interest in which has been increasing over the last decade. The aim of our study was to obtain pro-ecological composites with increased resistance to aging using a biopolymer, epoxidized natural rubber (ENR) and polyester polycaprolactone (PCL). To improve the resistance of these composites to aging, we used natural anti-aging substances, mainly flavonoids and amino acids. After simulating climatic, UV, and thermo-oxidative conditions, we assessed the effect of the antioxidants used on the degradation capability of ENR/PCL composites. Based on the tensile strength test, cross-link density and calorimetric measurements, we observed a considerable increase in the aging resistance of ENR/PCL composites. At the same time, the ENR/PCL composites showed a high susceptibility to biodegradation by microorganisms, which allowed us to obtain polymeric products with controlled degradation capabilities.