Recent Progress in Synthesizing Polyethers by Use of Organocatalysts

Aliphatic polyethers are one of the most widely used polymers, whose synthesis is largely dependent on metallic compounds. Recent development of organocatalysts may break the limits of this long-standing field and infuse vitality into polyether production. In this Synpacts article, the recent advances of organocatalysts for polyether production is introduced in aspects of catalytic performance and mechanism. Moreover, attentions are paid to the latest contributions of bifunctional organoboron catalysts which can be prepared with high yields from cost-effective raw materials in two facile reactions and show excellent performance in the polyether production with remarkable catalytic efficiency, controllability on molecular weight, and explicit polymerization mechanism. Based on these advances, it is envisioned that new discoveries using organocatalysts will continue in the foreseeable future.

Automated summary

The application of organocatalysts in polyether production has made significant progress, especially with the development of bifunctional organoboron catalysts that show excellent catalytic efficiency and controllability on molecular weight, bringing new possibilities to the field of polyether production.