Reversible-deactivation anionic alternating ring-opening copolymerization of epoxides and cyclic anhydrides: access to orthogonally functionalizable multiblock aliphatic polyesters

Abstract

A versatile catalyst system for the synthesis of narrow dispersity polyesters from readily available epoxides and anhydrides is reported.

Synthesis of high molecular weight aromatic polyesters via integrated alternating ring‐opening copolymerization and chain extension methods

“…However, these PEs are typically prepared by condensation reactions that require high vacuum and high polymerization temperature to accomplish high molecular weights. Currently, alternating ring‐opening copolymerization (ROCOP) is becoming a popular method for the synthesis of PEs . ROCOP is a controlled and atom‐economical approach to produce PEs with the advantage of less energy intensive process compared to condensation polymerization approach .…”

Ring‐Opening Copolymerization of Maleic Anhydride with Functional Epoxides: Poly(propylene fumarate) Analogues Capable of Post‐Polymerization Modification

“…Traditionally, PPF has been synthesized by step‐growth polymerization, which requires both elevated temperature and reduced pressure, and typically results in modest yields, broad molecular mass distribution ( Ð M ), and byproducts that must be removed prior to use . Various copolymerization strategies of epoxides, anhydrides, and lactones have been investigated previously to produce a wide range of polyesters . Recently, PPF was synthesized using an alternating ring‐opening copolymerization (ROCOP) of maleic anhydride (MA) and propylene oxide (PO) to produce poly(propylene maleate) (PPM), which was subsequently isomerized to produce PPF .…”

Orthogonal functionalization of alternating polyesters: selective patterning of (AB)n sequences

“…These polyesters are deliberately selected to be hydrolyzed to biocompatible diols and diacids and to utilize monomers that are, or in future could be, sourced from renewables. [5][6][7][8] Functionalized, precision AB polyesters are currently very rare, [9][10][11][12] and generally such polymers are more challenging to prepare. Sampson and co-workers have pioneered a series of alternating cationic/lipophilic poly(cyclobutylenes) that show higher antimicrobial activity and lower toxicity than random copolymers.…”