Novel group 4 initiators for the production of biocompatible polymers

POLY 483

Matthew D. Jones1, Amanda J. Chmura, a.j.chmura@bath.ac.uk1, Christopher J. Chuck1, Matthew G Davidson, m.g.davidson@bath.ac.uk1, and Matthew D. Lunn2. (1) Department of Chemistry, University of Bath, Claverton Down, Bath, BA2 7AY, United Kingdom, (2) Johnson Matthey Catalysts, PO Box 1, Belasis Avenue, Billingham, Cleveland, TS23 1LB, United Kingdom
Research into polylactide (PLA) is driven by the biocompatibility and biodegradability of the polymer and the fact it can be prepared from sustainable resources. Copolymers of PLA with caprolactone and glycolide have found particular use in high value biomedical applications, such as drug delivery materials and resorbable sutures. One main drawback of the existing technology is that the catalysts for the polymerization are based on tin. A series of biologically benign catalysts based on titanium and zirconium have recently been prepared. One such class of initiators are titanium-catecholate based systems. These catalysts have been found to be active for the polymerization of caprolactone, the results of which will be discussed. Further classes of novel initiators (such as a titanium metal organic framework, see figure) will be presented together with investigations into their stability (towards water and impurities in the lactide) and for the preparation of copolymers suitable for the biomedical industry.

 

Polymers from Renewable Resources
6:00 PM-8:00 PM, Tuesday, August 21, 2007 BCEC -- Exhibit Hall - B2, Poster

Division of Polymer Chemistry

The 234th ACS National Meeting, Boston, MA, August 19-23, 2007