POLY 437 |
| Enzymatic and synthetic enzymatic template-assisted polymerization of phenol and aniline has been carried out in water at room temperature. Various bio-compatible polymers such as Chondroitin sulphate (CHO), Kerathan sulphate (KER), and Dermatan (sulphate (DER) have been used as templates. These templates help in orienting the momomers (phenols and anilines) prior to and during the polymerization. Horseradish peroxidase proved to be an effective catalyst for this polymerization. In addition alternative synthetic enzyme, pegylated Iron Porphyrin (PEG-Hematin), was also found to catalyze the polymerization yielding more stable and cost effective polymeric complexes with electrical and antioxidant properties. All the products were soluble in water. UV-Vis spectroscopy indicated the presence of a large backbone conjugation. Furthermore, a naturally occurring phenolic compound, (-) epicatechin (NEP), was also polymerized in presence of CHO, KER and DER. The product exhibited higher stability, compared to the monomer, opening new avenues for application in the areas of food and medicine. This novel synthetic approach leads to improved processability, and functional characteristics for the polymer. |
|
Conjugated Polymer Materials and Hybrids: Synthesis, Macromolecular Assemblies, and Nanostructures
6:00 PM-8:00 PM, Tuesday, August 21, 2007 BCEC -- Exhibit Hall - B2, Poster
Division of Polymer Chemistry |