Work

Exploring the Catalytic Efficiency of Lithium Bis(trimethylsilyl)amide (LiHMDS) in Lactide Polymerization

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: The exploration of efficient catalysts for the ring-opening polymerization of cyclic esters has significant implications for the synthesis of biocompatible and biodegradable polymers. In this work, the simple catalyst lithium bis(trimethylsilyl)amide (LiHMDS) with high activity was explored in detail for the synthesis of polylactide (PLA). Using LiHMDS as the catalyst, various cyclic esters were polymerized to obtain diverse sustainable polyesters, such as poly(lactide), poly(δ-valerolactone), and poly(caprolactone), with controlled molecular weights and narrow molecular weight distributions. PLA synthesis was accomplished in just a few minutes at room temperature, contributing to the sustainable advancement of this polymer.

Source: Polymers

DOI: 10.3390/polym17030429

Authors: Almas Kiran, Achukee Chinedu Kingsley, Hassan Ahmed

Institutions: Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao Institute of Bioenergy and Bioprocess Technology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences

Language: English

Topic: biodegradable polymer synthesis and properties

Subfield: Biomaterials

Field: Materials Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Responsible consumption and production

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,258