Controlled Photoredox Ring-Opening Polymerization of O-Carboxyanhydrides Mediated by Ni/Zn Complexes

作者： Quanyou Feng1,2, Rong Tong2 1Center for Molecular Systems and Organic Devices, Institute of Optoelectronic Materials, Key Laboratory for Organic Electronics and Information Displays & Institute of Advanced Materials, Jiangsu National Synergetic Innovation Center for Advanced Materials,Nanjing University of Posts and Telecommunications, 2Department of Chemical Engineering,Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

简介：

Overview

This article presents a protocol for the controlled photoredox ring-opening polymerization of O-carboxyanhydrides mediated by Ni/Zn complexes. The method aims to synthesize high molecular weight poly(alpha-hydroxy acids) with functional side chains efficiently.

Key Study Components

Area of Science

• Polymer Chemistry
• Photoredox Chemistry
• Material Science

Background

• Polyesters are important materials in various applications.
• Controlled synthesis of polyesters can enhance their properties.
• O-carboxyanhydrides are a class of monomers used in polyester synthesis.
• Efficient polymerization methods are crucial for advancing this field.

Purpose of Study

• To develop a controlled method for synthesizing poly(alpha-hydroxy acids).
• To investigate the efficiency of polymerization using Ni/Zn complexes.
• To contribute to the understanding of polyester synthesis from O-carboxyanhydrides.

Methods Used

• Preparation of solutions of bipy-nickel(COD)zinc bis(hmds)benzyl alcohol.
• Use of an iridium catalyst in an anhydrous THF environment.
• Storage of solutions at -35 degrees Celsius.
• Demonstration of the procedure by a postdoc in the laboratory.

Main Results

• The polymerization method is highly efficient.
• The technique does not affect the serial chemistry of the monomer.
• High molecular weight poly(alpha-hydroxy acids) can be synthesized.
• Functional side chains can be incorporated into the polymer structure.

Conclusions

• This method provides a controlled approach to polyester synthesis.
• The use of Ni/Zn complexes offers advantages in efficiency.
• Further research can build on this protocol to explore new applications.

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