Optimization of Process Parameters for Controlled Ring-Opening Polymerization of Lactide to Produce Poly(L-Lactide) Diols as Precursor for Polyurethanes

Series of poly(L-Lactide) diols with molecular weights (M-n) in 2,069-4,811g mol(-1) were synthesized from L-Lactide using stannous octoate catalyst and 1,4-butanediol chain extender. Operating conditions, i.e., temperature, catalyst concentration, chain extender concentration, and reaction time, were optimized. Maximum monomer conversion and M-n were observed at 0.5mol% SnOct(2) and 1.0mol% 1,4 butanediol (BDO) at 145 degrees C. Poly(L-Lactide) diols were analyzed by Fourier transform infrared, proton nuclear magnetic resonance, end-group analysis, and X-ray diffraction techniques. Fourier transform infrared confirmed the formation of poly(L-Lactide) diols. Poly(L-Lactide) diols' % degree of crystallinity was determined by X-ray diffraction. M-n was calculated by proton nuclear magnetic resonance and end-group analysis. [GRAPHICS] .