Telechelic and Star‐Shaped Poly(<i>ε</i>‐caprolactone) Functionalized with Triethoxysilyl Groups – New Biodegradable Coatings and Adhesives

Abstract

Abstract Summary: Monofunctional poly( ε CL) having one CH 2 OH and one CO 2 CH 3 endgroup was prepared by SnOct 2 + MeOH‐initiated polymerizations of ε CL at 80 °C. The CH 2 OH endgroups were reacted with IPTES. In this way, poly( ε CL) having one CO 2 CH 3 and one TES endgroup was obtained. Poly( ε CL) having two CH 2 OH endgroups were prepared by means of SnOct 2 and Tetra EG or 1,4‐butanediol as coinitiators. The molecular weight distribution significantly broadened when the polymerization temperature increased from 80 to 120 °C. The OH endgroups were quantitatively functionalized by addition of IPTES. Star‐shaped poly( ε CL)s having three or four OH endgroups were prepared with 1,1,1‐tris(hydroxymethyl)propane or pentaerythritol as coinitiators. All endgroups were modified with IPTES. The lengths of the poly( ε CL) segments were varied via the monomer/coinitiator ratio. All functionalized oligomers were characterized by 1 H NMR spectroscopy and MALDI‐TOF mass spectrometry. Preliminary studies of film formation and adhesive properties were performed. MALDI‐TOF mass spectrum of a poly( ε CL) initiated with Sn(Oct) 2 and 1,4‐butanediol and functionalized with IPTES. magnified image MALDI‐TOF mass spectrum of a poly( ε CL) initiated with Sn(Oct) 2 and 1,4‐butanediol and functionalized with IPTES.