This catalyst polymerizes cyclic alkenes to produce cyclic polymers, utilizing ring expansion metathesis polymerization. Polymerization is the process in which individual monomers are joined together to form polymers. Ring expansion metathesis polymerization allows for the synthesis of high molecular weight cyclic polymers. Polydicyclopentadiene (polyDCPD), a polymer used in many industrial products, is known for its impact resistance at low temperatures. However, the cyclic polymer of dicyclopentadiene has not been discovered. University of Florida researchers have developed an improved catalyst that produces cyclic polymers, which may present substantially different properties from traditional linear polymer structures. The catalyst polymerizes cyclic monomers for the production of cyclic polymers, having potential applications in motor oil as a lubricant and in the construction of industrial grade plastics. In addition, the cyclic polymers obtained can be further functionalized to access new materials with novel properties.
Catalyst as a composition of matter that polymerizes a broader scope of monomers, producing cyclic polymers with very high stereoselectivity.
Cyclic polymers have different physical properties compared to their linear counterparts. The different physical properties have potential to impact the production of new polymer products. The developed catalyst polymerizes cyclic monomers for the production of cyclic polymers, and is more active and long lived. The catalyst produces cyclic polymers that exhibit different characteristics to polyDCPD polymers and polynorbornene.