Block copolymers and crosslinked copolymers derived from lactide and epoxides were synthesized using a unique iron-based catalyst that is capable of switching its chemoselectivity when exposed to chemical oxidants and reductants. The unique selectivity of these complexes has allowed for the synthesis of block copolymers where the composition of the copolymer is dictated by the oxidation state of the catalyst. Similarly, redox triggered crosslinking reactions were achieved when a novel epoxide-functionalized cyclic diester monomer was used in the redox-switchable polymerization reactions. These new synthetic methods provide access to new degradable synthetic polymers, the properties of which are not well explored. In addition to the description of the synthetic techniques used to synthesize these new polymers, an account of the physical and mechanical properties of some of these materials will be presented.

Block copolymers and crosslinked copolymers obtained with redox-switchable polymerization catalysts

253rd National Meeting (2017)

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