Authors:

Javier Hurst

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About Paper:

Cyclic polymers, which have unique physical properties compared to their straight-chain counterparts, are of great interest to researchers due to their potential applications in various industries like electronics, packaging, and coating. However, the efficient industrial-scale synthesis of cyclic polymers remains a challenge. Addressing this gap, Dr. Veige has developed a tungsten catalyst capable of rapidly and effectively polymerizing specific types of molecules containing triple bonds (alkynes). In this study, the focus lies on understanding the mechanism underlying this catalytic process and exploring the catalyst's interactions with small molecules. One such molecule under investigation is cyclooctyne, known for its high reactivity due to its ring strain. Upon reaction with the tungsten catalyst, two complexes are formed depending on the amount of cyclooctyne added. Upon further investigation, it has been observed that heating these complexes results in the formation of an isomer featuring a tether connecting the catalyst's active site to the growing polymer ring. Preliminary findings suggest that one of these complexes acts as a catalyst for cyclic polymerization. Ongoing research aims to ascertain if other complexes exhibit similar catalytic properties. Comprehensive characterization of all synthesized products is conducted using analytical techniques such as NMR spectroscopy, X-ray crystallography, and elemental analysis. 89

Source:

University of Florida / 2024

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Co-authors:

Javier Hurst