Synthesis of perfluoropolyether-co-polylactide copolymers using ring opening polymerization and transesterification reactions

POLY 415

Dahlia Haynes, dahliah@clemson.edu, Department of Chemistry, Clemson University, Hunter Lab 443, Clemson, SC 29634 and Dennis W. Smith Jr., dwsmith@clemson.edu, Department of Chemistry, Center for Optical Materials Science and Engineering Technologies (COMSET), Clemson University, Clemson, SC 29634.
Perfluoropolyethers can offer an array of different properties such as low surface energy, good oxidative stability, solvent and high temperature resistance. The ring opening polymerization of lactide in the presence of dihydroxy terminated perfluoropolyether macroinitiator using Sn(Oct)2 as catalyst and tranesterifcation of PFPE with high molecular weight polylactide affords new block copolymers with tailorable properties. Perfluoropolyether segments impart optical clarity, improved ductility, and reduced surface energy with a low amount of fluorine incorporation. These novel polymers can be processed into an array of different materials of desired properties for specific applications. These copolymers have high potential to replace petrochemical based resins in commodity areas such as plastics and textiles where properties can be tailored depending upon end use requirements.
 

Synthetic and Biological Macromolecules for Emerging Nanotechnologies
6:00 PM-8:00 PM, Tuesday, August 21, 2007 BCEC -- Exhibit Hall - B2, Poster

Sci-Mix
8:00 PM-10:00 PM, Monday, August 20, 2007 BCEC -- Exhibit Hall - B2, Sci-Mix

Division of Polymer Chemistry

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