PEO-Functionalized Norbornene Monomers for ROMP
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for ring opening metathesis polymerization (ROMP) lack control over molecular weight and polydispersity, particularly for water-soluble polymers like PEO-functionalized norbornenes, which are essential for various applications but have limited understanding and development.
Innovation Solution
Development of novel PEO-functionalized norbornene monomers suitable for ROMP, using Ru-based catalysts, which allow for the production of water-soluble and water-insoluble polymers with narrow polydispersity and controlled molecular weights between 50 kDa and 100 kDa, enabling applications in biomaterials and other soft materials.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If conventional ROMP methods are used for PEO-functionalized norbornenes, then polymerization can proceed, but control over molecular weight and polydispersity is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by systematically varying catalyst generation (1st, 2nd, 3rd generation Grubb's catalysts), monomer structure (different PEO chain lengths, norbornene derivatives), and reaction conditions to achieve precise control over molecular weight and polydispersity. This is evidenced by the detailed optimization of polymerization parameters to produce polymers with PDI between 1.0-1.5 and molecular weights between 50-100 kDa.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs feedback mechanisms by using controlled ring-opening metathesis polymerization (C-ROMP) where the polymerization rate and extent are monitored and controlled through catalyst deactivation strategies and sequential monomer addition. This feedback control enables precise molecular weight targeting and narrow polydispersity, resolving the reliability issue of conventional ROMP.
2Adaptability or versatility
If PEO-functionalized norbornene monomers are developed for water-soluble polymers, then applications in biomaterials and soft materials are enabled, but the complexity of monomer synthesis and polymerization control increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent achieves universality by developing a platform of PEO-functionalized norbornene monomers that can be polymerized using a unified ROMP methodology with various catalysts. The resulting polymers serve multiple applications including biomaterials, dispersants, and soft materials, all through the same core polymerization technology, reducing the need for separate development pathways.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses PEO-functionalized norbornene as an intermediary structure that combines the polymerizable norbornene group with the water-soluble PEO side chains. This intermediary monomer design enables the synthesis of water-soluble polymers with controlled properties, bridging the gap between synthetic polymer chemistry and biomedical applications without requiring direct modification of complex biological systems.
3Productivity
If high molecular weight polymers are produced rapidly via ROMP, then production efficiency is high, but control over polydispersity becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies periodic action through controlled catalyst deactivation and sequential polymerization stages. The polymerization is conducted in a controlled manner where the reaction progress is periodically monitored and adjusted, allowing high molecular weight polymers to form rapidly while maintaining narrow polydispersity through staged addition and controlled catalyst lifetime.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic control of the polymerization process by using catalysts with controllable activity and lifetime. The polymerization system is made dynamic through adjustable parameters such as catalyst concentration, temperature, and monomer feed rate, enabling the system to adapt during polymerization to maintain both high productivity and narrow polydispersity throughout the reaction.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The novel monomers and polymers achieve improved polydispersity control and molecular weight range, enhancing their suitability for applications in biomaterials, dispersants, and other soft material uses, with potential for better performance in water-based systems.
Implementation Method 1
One method that can be used to achieve control of a polymer's molecular weight (MW) and polydispersity is through ring opening metathesis polymerization (ROMP). ROMP is valuable where undesirable termination and chain transfer reactions are either absent or insignificant and polymerization rates are usually very rapid with high MW polymers approaching 100 kDa often obtained within minutes.
Implementation Method 2
Ruthenium (Ru)-based catalysts allow the polymerization of strained unsaturated cyclic monomers with numerous functionalities. Some of the most commonly polymerized monomers are norbornene and its derivatives.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention provides certain novel water-soluble and water-insoluble monomers for ring opening metathesis polymerization and novel polymers, compositions and products, and related methods thereof.