Chem 421: Introduction to Polymer Chemistry

Examples of Ring Opening Polymerization


Polyesters:

Polyesters by ROP


Polyamides:

Polyamides by ROP


Ring Opening Polymerization of N-Carboxy Anhydrides

Polypeptides by ROP

The product polymer is a poly(amino acid) or polypeptide or synthetic protein. This particular reaction is noteworthy because it is a chain reaction that occurs with expulsion of a small molecule (CO2). Such reactions are very rare.


Silicones:

Silicones by ROP

An example of an polymer with an inorganic backbone that can also be made by step polymerization.


Polyphosphazenes:

Polyphosphazenes by ROP

An example of a completely inorganic polymer that can be functionalized with organic groups after polymerization.


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