Core-Shell Hyperbranched Polymers via Catalytic Ring-Opening Metathesis Polymerization

This work explores the synthesis, characterization, and applications of hyperbranched polymers (HBP) using a divergent ring-opening metathesis polymerization (ROMP) approach. An ABB'-type hyperbranching monomer, formed by covalently linking a traditional ROMP monomer to a chain transfer agent, was diluted with a linear comonomer to produce branched polymers with controlled molar mass and dispersity. Dynamic light scattering (DLS) and X-ray scattering confirmed their globular shape in solution. Additionally, we functionalized HBPs to create core-shell materials capable of encapsulating organic dyes efficiently. The study also highlights their role in sustainable polymer design, demonstrating degradation under mild acidic conditions. Core-shell particles synthesized via this approach enabled efficient capture and rapid, on-demand release of guest molecules, emphasizing their potential in drug delivery and advanced materials science.