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Modular monomer precursor enables functional and biodegradable polyamino esters
A newly developed oxazepan monomer precursor enables the tailored synthesis of functional and biodegradable poly(amino esters) under mild conditions.
N-acylated poly(amino esters) (PAEs) synthesised via organocatalytic ring-opening polymerisation (ROP) are promising materials for functional and degradable applications. A research team has now developed a universal monomer precursor for N-acylated 1,4-oxazepan-7-ones (OxPs) through a three-step synthesis, allowing the introduction of various functional groups.
Two novel oxidation-sensitive OxP monomers bearing a double bond or a sulphide group were designed, along with two monomers containing alkyl moieties. The organocatalytic ROP of the OxP monomers was performed at ambient temperature using DBU and TU as catalysts, yielding homopolymers with narrow dispersities (Ð = 1.09–1.13).
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Functionalisation and degradability demonstrated
As a proof of concept, a post-polymerisation thiol–ene functionalisation of the allyl-functional PAE was carried out and confirmed via photo-rheology experiments.
In addition, the (bio)degradability of the N-acylated PAEs was evaluated under mild enzymatic catalysis, in neutral phosphate-buffered saline solution and under accelerated conditions. The results confirm the suitability of the system for sustainable and functional applications.
Source: Polymer Chemistry, Issue 30, 2025
