Work

Controlled organocatalyzed d , l -lactide ring-opening polymerizations: synthesis of low molecular weight oligomers

Year: 2018

Type: article

Abstract: A systematic approach to the synthesis of organocatalyzed oligo(d,l-lactide) demonstrates that choice of initiator, catalytic ratio, and reaction time yields well-controlled oligomers. Ring-opening polymerization of d,l-lactide with the initiator α-methyl propargyl alcohol, a secondary alcohol, used in excess of 4-dimethylaminopyridine catalyst mitigates cyclicization, transesterification, and catalyst-initiated side reactions. This approach enables the design of uniform lactide oligomers for controlled release applications, such as delivery systems for drugs, prodrugs, and molecular sensors.

Source: RSC Advances

DOI: 10.1039/c8ra05306e

Authors: M. R. Newman, S. G. Russell, D. S. W. Benoit

Institutions: University of Rochester Medicine, University of Rochester

Language: English

Topic: biodegradable polymer synthesis and properties

Subfield: Biomaterials

Field: Materials Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,042

Funders: National Science Foundation, University of Rochester, Division of Chemical, Bioengineering, Environmental, and Transport Systems