title: Ring-opening copolymerization of maleic anhydride with epoxides: a chain-growth approach to unsaturated polyesters.
abstract: We report the ring-opening copolymerization of maleic anhydride with a variety of epoxides catalyzed by a chromium(III) salen complex. Quantitative isomerization of the cis-maleate form of all polymers affords the trans-fumarate analogues. Addition of chain transfer reagents yields low M(n), narrow PDI polymer samples. This method provides access to a range of new unsaturated polyesters with versatile functionality, as well as the first synthesis of high molecular weight poly(propylene fumarate).
authors.affiliation: Baker Laboratory, Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York 14853-1301, USA.
authors.forename: Angela M
authors.initials: AM
authors.lastname: DiCiccio
authors.forename: Geoffrey W
authors.initials: GW
authors.lastname: Coates