Physical properties of aliphatic polycarbonates made from CO2 and epoxides

TLDR: In this paper, a homologous series of aliphatic polycar-bonates with different side-chain lengths was synthesized by ring-opening polymerization of terminal epoxides with CO2 using zinc adipionate as catalyst.

Abstract: A homologous series of aliphatic polycar- bonates with different side-chain lengths was synthesized by ring-opening polymerization of terminal epoxides with CO2 using zinc adipionate as catalyst (patented process of Empower Materials (formerly PAC Polymers Inc.)). Addi- tionally, a polycarbonate was made having a cyclohexane unit in its backbone, together with a terpolymer having both cyclohexane and propylene units. After characterization of thermal properties the aliphatic polycarbonates were found to be completely amorphous. Polycarbonates derived from long-chain epoxides showed a glass-transition temperature (Tg) below room temperature, whereas polycarbonates de- rived from cyclohexene oxide showed a Tg of 105°C, the highest yet reported for this class of polymers. The initial decomposition temperature of the polymers in air and ni- trogen atmospheres was found to be less than 300°C. The mechanical properties and the dynamic mechanical relax- ation behavior of the polymers were also reported. The effect of the chemical structure on the physical properties of ali- phatic polycarbonates was discussed. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 89: 1163-1176, 2003