Aliphatic polyesters play an important role in the field of biomedical applications and biodegradable materials. In this work we present the incorporation of the difunctional oxetane monomer 3,3-bis(hydroxymethyl)oxetane (BHMO) into aliphatic polyesters, preserving the heterocyclic element in the final polymer structure. By exploiting the enzymatic polycondensation catalyzed by CALB (Candida antarctica Lipase B), it was possible to polymerize the sterically hindered and acid labile BHMO in a copolymerization with 1,8-octanediol and sebacic acid, applying different monomer ratios. Molecular weights obtained were between 5000-9200 g/mol and PDIs were in the range of 1.25-1.80. It was observed that compared to the 1,8-octanediol monomer, entering the hydrophobic pocket of the enzymes active center appears to be more difficult for the BHMO molecule, which is likely to impede its attachment to the growing chains.

Synthesis of oxetane-containing aliphatic polyesters via enzymatic polycondensation

243rd National Meeting (2012)

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