Anionic Polymerization of Methylene Malonate for High-Performance Coatings

Area of Science:

• Polymer Chemistry
• Materials Science

Background:

• Diethyl methylene malonate (DEMM) is a novel monomer with high reactivity.
• Anionic polymerization offers a versatile route for polymer synthesis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To demonstrate the anionic polymerization of DEMM.
• To investigate DEMM's utility in creating advanced latex coatings.

Main Methods:

• Anionic polymerization of DEMM initiated by water and various anionic functional groups (carboxylate, boronic, phenol).
• pH-dependent polymerization studies in aqueous media.
• Synthesis and application of a multifunctional DEMM derivative ((DEMM)6) in latex formulations.

Main Results:

• DEMM polymerization is efficiently initiated by water and anionic groups at room temperature and atmospheric pressure.
• Polymerization rate and molecular weight are pH-dependent.
• Incorporation of (DEMM)6 into latex significantly improved cross-linking and rub resistance (289% enhancement).

Conclusions:

• DEMM is a highly reactive monomer suitable for facile anionic polymerization.
• A simple method for room-temperature synthesis of robust, cross-linked latex coatings was developed using DEMM derivatives.