Synthesis and Characterization of Biobased Polyesters with Tunable Tg by ROCOP of Beta-Elemene Oxides and Phthalic Anhydride

The use of terpene-based oxides derived from beta-elemene is reported in the context of new functional semiaromatic polyester development. In particular, poly(beta-elemene monoxide-alt-phthalic anhydride) featuring two double bonds per repeating unit having distinct reactivity is conveniently prepared by iron- and aluminum-mediated ring-opening polymerization (ROCOP). Sequential and selective transformation of each of these double bonds is addressed by epoxidation allowing one to precisely manipulate the degree and nature of the functionality in the polymer backbone while modulating the T-g from 68 to 121 degrees C. Direct access to cross-linked polyesters is demonstrated by ROCOP of bifunctional beta-elemene dioxide and phthalic anhydride furnishing a material with a Tg of 125 degrees C.

Automated summary

This study reports the use of terpene-based oxides derived from beta-elemene in the development of new functional semiaromatic polyesters. By sequentially and selectively transforming double bonds through epoxidation, the degree and nature of functionality in the polymer backbone can be precisely manipulated. Furthermore, direct access to cross-linked polyesters with a higher Tg is demonstrated through ring-opening polymerization of bifunctional beta-elemene dioxide and phthalic anhydride.