Cationic ring-opening polymerization of trimethylene carbonate to α,ω-dihydroxy telechelic and star-shaped polycarbonates catalyzed by reusable o -benzenedisulfonimide

Synthesis of pH-cleavable poly(trimethylene carbonate)-based block copolymers via ROP and RAFT polymerization

pH-responsive PDMAAm-b-PTMC block copolymers and their particles were prepared by combining ROP and RAFT polymerization using imine-containing macro-RAFT CTA.

Ring-opening polymerization of trimethylene carbonate to poly(trimethylene carbonate) diol over a heterogeneous high-temperature calcined CeO2 catalyst

CeO₂ calcined at 1273 K was an effective reusable heterogeneous catalyst for the synthesis of poly(trimethylene carbonate) diol by ring-opening polymerization of trimethylene carbonate under neat conditions without any additives.

Star Polymers

Recent advances in controlled/living polymerization techniques and highly efficient coupling chemistries have enabled the facile synthesis of complex polymer architectures with controlled dimensions and functionality. As an example, star polymers consist of many linear polymers fused at a central point with a large number of chain end functionalities. Owing to this exclusive structure, star polymers exhibit some remarkable characteristics and properties unattainable by simple linear polymers. Hence, they constitute a unique class of technologically important nanomaterials that have been utilized or are currently under audition for many applications in life sciences and nanotechnologies. This article first provides a comprehensive summary of synthetic strategies towards star polymers, then reviews the latest developments in the synthesis and characterization methods of star macromolecules, and lastly outlines emerging applications and current commercial use of star-shaped polymers. The aim of this work is to promote star polymer research, generate new avenues of scientific investigation, and provide contemporary perspectives on chemical innovation that may expedite the commercialization of new star nanomaterials. We envision in the not-too-distant future star polymers will play an increasingly important role in materials science and nanotechnology in both academic and industrial settings.

Polymerization of trimethylene carbonates using organic phosphoric acids

1,1′-Binaphthyl-2,2′-diyl hydrogen phosphate (BNPH) catalyzed a controlled/living ROP of TMC through a bifunctional activation mechanism, leading to end-functionalized PTMC and block polymers.

Organophosphate-catalyzed bulk ring-opening polymerization as an environmentally benign route leading to block copolyesters, end-functionalized polyesters, and polyester-based polyurethane

To expand the potential of an organophosphate catalyst, ring-opening polymerization of cyclic esters, cyclic ester-ether, and cyclic carbonate was demonstrated under bulk conditions.