Optimizing Adhesion and Thermal Properties of PBAT ‐Based Hot‐Melt Adhesives via Tailored Side‐Chain Architectures

This study explores the optimization of adhesion and thermal properties of poly(butylene adipate‐co‐terephthalate) (PBAT)‐based hot‐melt adhesives through tailored side‐chain architectures. PBAT copolymers were synthesized via melt polycondensation with 2‐methyl‐1,3‐propanediol (MPO) and neopentyl glycol (NPG) as comonomers to enhance adhesion performance for polyester fabric lamination. Structural characterization by 1H‐NMR and FT‐IR confirmed successful incorporation, while DSC revealed a reduction in melting temperature (Tm) from 134.3°C to 95.4°C and a decrease in crystallization temperature (Tc) with increasing MPO/NPG content. TGA demonstrated high thermal stability, with Td‐5% ranging from 350.5°C to 362.5°C. Mechanical testing showed enhanced flexibility, decreasing Shore D hardness from 24.7 to 17.3 at 30 mol% modification. Rheological analysis indicated improved melt flow and shear‐thinning behavior, facilitating processing. T‐peel strength tests significantly increased, reaching 101.20 N/25 mm for PBAT‐N20 at Tm + 15°C, compared to 35.64 N/25 mm for neat PBAT. Water contact angle measurements confirmed increased hydrophobicity, rising from 62.89° to 74.80°, contributing to improved hydrolysis resistance. These findings highlight the effectiveness of side‐chain engineering in fine‐tuning PBAT‐based adhesives, achieving an optimal balance of adhesion strength, flexibility, and durability for high‐performance textile applications.