Design and structure of catalysts: syntheses of carbon dioxide-based copolymers with cyclic anhydrides and/or cyclic esters

CO2-based poly(ester-co-carbonate)s synthesized through the copolymerization of epoxides and CO(2)with cyclic anhydrides and/or cyclic esters have continuously received attention due to their tunable degradability and adjustable thermal and mechanical properties. A variety of catalysts have been developed for this methodology, including zinc, cobalt, and chromium complexes, which can provide well-defined polymers. In this review, we provide a thorough account of the catalysts used in the copolymerization of epoxides and CO(2)with cyclic anhydrides and/or cyclic esters. The development direction and future perspectives of catalyst design are also discussed.

Automated summary

CO2-based poly(ester-co-carbonate)s have gained attention for their tunable degradability and adjustable thermal and mechanical properties. Various catalysts, including zinc, cobalt, and chromium complexes, have been developed to provide well-defined polymers for this methodology. The review provides an account of the catalysts used and discusses the development direction and future perspectives of catalyst design.