| abstract |
Polyester plasticizer compositions for adhesives, caulk, sealants, vinyl and other polymeric compositions comprising low molecular weight oligomeric dibenzoates prepared by end-capping a polyester plasticizer, having alternating units of glycols or diols and dibasic acids, with benzoic acid. Methods for preparing oligomeric dibenzoates include steps to reduce or eliminate residual hydroxyl content and improve plasticizer performance by adding acetic anhydride are also disclosed. Propylene glycol adipate and propylene glycol succinate polyesters with benzoic acid end-caps are particularly useful, as are hybrid benzoate/acetate end-capped polyesters formed in the process with acetic anhydride. Caulks, adhesives, sealants, and vinyl compositions comprising the oligomeric end-capped polyesters of the invention are also contemplated. |