Polyphosphaalkenes –New Phosphorus Containing Polymers

Researchers at The University of British Columbia have developed synthetic routes to an entirely novel family of polymer compositions in which phosphorus atoms are incorporated into the polymer backbone. The synthetic methodology involves the polymerization of P=C bonds in phosphaalkenes and is analogous to the polymerization of C=C bonds in olefins. However, the presence of phosphorus in the main chain imparts unique chemical functionality and properties to the polymer as compared to polyolefins. The novel polymers can be readily functionalized and elaborated upon in order to form other useful materials. Moreover, since the methods of polymerization of phosphaalkenes and olefins are compatible, copolymers (including block copolymers via living anionic polymerization) are also readily accessible by the synthetic methodology. Effectively, this results in “doping” a polyolefin (i.e. polystyrene, polyacrylates, etc.) with phosphorus functionalities. The phosphorus atoms can either be in the (+3) or (+5) oxidation states to tune chemical functionality and properties. These new polymers have a number of potential applications, including:

Solid supported, insoluble, and therefore readily recoverable reagents for stoichiometric transformations of organic substrates

Novel metal-containing polymers for polymer supported catalysis

Flame retardant polymers

Polymer scavengers for transition metals

Pre-ceramic polymers

Biocompatible polymers – polymers may biodegrade to form biologically tolerable phosphates

Templates for nanostructured assemblies and materials Advantages:

Presence of phosphorus in polymer backbone imparts unique chemical functionality into polyolefin-like materials

Polymer synthesis possible via conventional methods including living anionic polymerization to provide novel materials including copolymers and block copolymers

Type of Offer: Licensing



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