A Review on the Application of Reactive Plasticizers in Polymers Containing Azide Side Group

Plasticizers are small molecules that have low molecular weight. These compounds typically have an esteric structure. The plasticizers reduce the glass transition temperature and the viscosity of the matrix polymer and enhance the flexibility and processability of polymer materials. The main problem of these additives is that they migrate from the polymeric matrix and exude to the surface of polymer. As a result, the physical and mechanical properties of the polymer are affected. Various strategies, such as increasing molecular weight of plasticizer, selection of oligomeric structure for plasticizer, adding nanoparticles of minerals, etc., have been investigated to reduce and eliminate migration. An approach that has recently been interest to researchers is the use of reactive plasticizers. In this approach, plasticizers covalently attaches to the polymer chains and prevents migration.