Macrocyclic Compounds Synthesis via Universal Macrolactonization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for synthesizing macrocyclic compounds, particularly macrolactones, lack versatility in using different starting materials and incorporating new functional groups, limiting their application in various fields such as cosmetics, coatings, and medical devices.

Innovation Solution

A method involving the reaction of specific compounds to produce macrocyclic compounds according to Formula I or Formula II, which allows for the incorporation of various functional groups and the formation of polymers with ether/ester or ether/amide linkages, enabling the creation of new macrocyclic compounds and polymers with tailored properties.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If conventional macrolactonization approaches are used, then macrocyclic compounds can be synthesized, but the versatility in using different starting materials and incorporating new functional groups is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveversatility in using different starting materials and incorporating new functional groupsVSAvoidcomplexity of synthesis approach
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent develops a universal macrolactonization methodology that can accommodate diverse starting materials including carboxylic acids, esters, and amides, as well as various diols and amino alcohols. The reaction conditions and catalyst system are designed to be broadly applicable across different functional groups and substrate types, enabling one synthesis platform to serve multiple purposes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The invention optimizes reaction parameters such as catalyst selection, temperature, solvent system, and molar ratios to enable versatile macrolactonization. By systematically adjusting these parameters, the method achieves high efficiency across different starting materials and functional groups without requiring fundamentally different approaches for each case.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Adaptability or versatility

If new macrocyclic compounds with various functional groups are synthesized, then applications in cosmetics, coatings, and medical devices expand, but the difficulty of synthesis increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverange of applications in cosmetics, coatings, and medical devicesVSAvoidease of synthesis
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The macrolactonization reaction is designed to be self-catalyzed or use simple, easily removable catalysts that do not require complex purification steps. The reaction conditions are optimized to minimize side reactions and maximize yield, reducing the need for additional purification and characterization steps.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The methodology employs inexpensive, readily available starting materials and simple catalysts that can be easily disposed of or removed. The reaction is designed to tolerate water and oxygen, eliminating the need for expensive inert atmosphere equipment or specialized reagents.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

3Adaptability or versatility

If polymers with alternating ether/ester or ether/amide linkages are produced, then new properties and applications are achieved, but the complexity of the reaction system increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetailored properties of polymersVSAvoidcomplexity of reaction system
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The polymer synthesis is achieved through stepwise macrolactonization and polycondensation reactions that build the polymer chain in a controlled manner. The alternating ether/ester or ether/amide linkages are formed through sequential reaction steps that can be monitored and controlled independently.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The invention produces composite polymer structures combining different linkage types (ether, ester, amide) within the same macrocyclic framework. This creates materials with combined properties from different functional groups, achieving tailored performance characteristics.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

Data Source

PatentUS9783520B2Macrocyclic compounds, polymers, and methods for making same
Publication Date: 2017.10.10 P2 SCIENCE INC
  • US9783520B2 patent drawing
  • US9783520B2 patent drawing
  • US9783520B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The application relates to macrocyclic compounds and related polymers, as well as to processes for synthesizing them, e.g., using olefins as starting material.