Degradable core cross-linked star polymers via ring-opening polymerization

Abstract

Synthesis of core cross-linked star (CCS) polymers via a two-step one-pot process involving the synthesis of living near arms followed by a cross-linking step to generate CCS polymers, is discussed. Ring-opening polymerization (ROP) of a lactone was performed in the presence of a catalyst and an initiator in toluene to produce living linear polycaprolactone (PCL) arms. It was followed by addition of a bislactone, which acts a cross-linking component under ROP conditions to give the core structure. This bislactone was used as the cross-linking agent due to its structural similarity with the lactone such that the core of the star polymer would chemically resemble PCL only with bridges linking ..