Monomer Controlled Switchable Copolymerization: A Feasible Route for the Functionalization of Poly(lactide)

Area of Science:

• Polymer Chemistry
• Materials Science

Background:

• Multi-block polyesters offer tunable properties and functionalities.
• Controlled synthesis of well-defined multi-block polymers remains a challenge.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a new monomer-controlled self-switchable polymerization route.
• To synthesize multi-block polyesters with diverse pendant groups.
• To achieve antibacterial functionalization of polylactic acid (PLA).

Main Methods:

• Utilized reversible CO2 insertion by Salen-MnIII catalyst.
• Employed chemoselective ring-opening copolymerization of O-carboxyanhydrides (OCAs) and lactide (LA) without a co-catalyst.
• Modified propargyl-containing copolymers with quaternary ammonium groups.

Main Results:

• Successfully synthesized a series of multi-block polyesters with varying pendant groups.
• Demonstrated sequential monomer incorporation for controlled block formation.
• Achieved antibacterial functionality in PLA through post-polymerization modification.

Conclusions:

• The developed self-switchable polymerization strategy provides precise control over multi-block polyester synthesis.
• This method facilitates the creation of functional polymers for advanced applications.
• The strategy holds significant potential for fabricating novel biomaterials.