Synthesis of Poly(Ester-Ether) Polymers via Hydroesterificative Polymerization of α,ω-Enol Ethers

The Pd-catalyzed carbonylative polymerization of alpha,omega-enol ethers derived from etherification of 10-undecenol with diols is reported, extending the scope of this relatively new polymerization strategy beyond simple 10-undecenol. By varying the length of the aliphatic diol fragment in the alpha,omega-enol ether monomers the T-m and T-d of the polymers could be modified, ranging from 53 to 62 degrees C and 247 to 277 degrees C. Additionally, polymerization of alpha,omega-enol ethers containing rigid and bioderived diol moieties has been achieved, expanding the range of structures and polymer properties accessible via hydroesterificative polymerization. These more rigid alpha,omega-enol ether monomers resulted in further tuning of the polymer physical properties, with T-m values ranging from 54 to 68 degrees C and T-g values increasing up to -17 degrees C.

Automated summary

The Pd-catalyzed carbonylative polymerization of alpha,omega-enol ethers has been reported, allowing the modification of polymer properties by varying the length of the diol fragment in the monomers. This polymerization strategy has been extended to include rigid and bioderived diol moieties, expanding the range of structures and properties accessible.