Yemanlall Lochee, D. Jhurry, A. Bhaw‐Luximon
Sep 1, 2010
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Journal
Polymer International
Abstract
The synthesis and detailed characterization of racemic 3-methyl-1,4-dioxan-2-one (3-MeDX) are reported. The bulk ring-opening polymerization of 3-MeDX, to yield a poly(ester-ether) meant for biomedical applications, in the presence of various initiators such as tin(II) octanoate, tin(II) octanoate/n-butyl alcohol, aluminium tris-isopropoxide and an aluminium Schiff base complex (HAPENAlOiPr) under varying experimental conditions is here detailed for the first time. Polymerization kinetics were investigated and compared with those of 1,4-dioxan-2-one. The studies reveal that the rate of polymerization of 3-MeDX is less than that of 1,4-dioxan-2-one. Experimental conditions to achieve relatively high molar masses have been established. Thermodynamic parameters such as enthalpy and entropy of 3-MeDX polymerization as well as ceiling temperature have been determined. Poly(D,L-3-MeDX) is found to possess a much lower ceiling temperature than poly(1,4-dioxan-2-one). Poly(D,L-3-MeDX) was characterized using NMR spectroscopy, matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization mass spectrometry, size exclusion chromatography and differential scanning calorimetry. This polymer is an amorphous material with a glass transition temperature of about −20 °C. Copyright © 2010 Society of Chemical Industry