Entropically-driven ring-opening polymerization of macrocyclic esters with up to 84-membered rings catalysed by polymer-supported Candida antarctica lipase B

Abstract

Macrocyclic esters with 24- to 84-ring atoms can be polymerized successfully using PS Candida antarctica lipase B as the catalyst. This method allows the polymerization of macrocycles containing substantial in-chain functional moieties, such as monomers incorporating steroid residues. It also affords metal-free products.