A versatile flash cyclization technique assisted by microreactor. Issue 36 (21st August 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Shen, Hongying; Wang, Guowei
• Is Part Of: Polymer chemistry. Volume 8:Issue 36(2017)
• Page Start: 5554
• Page End: 5560
• Publication Date: 2017-08-21
• Subjects: Polymers -- Periodicals; Macromolecules -- Periodicals; Polymerization -- Periodicals; 547.705
• DOI: 10.1039/c7py01034f
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1759-9954

Abstract

Abstract : An innovative and versatile flash cyclization technique assisted by microreactor (or micromixer) is presented. The cyclization of linear poly(ethylene oxide) ( l -PEO) with high efficiency can be instantly and completely realized in a micromixer. Abstract : Cyclic polymers have been confirmed to possess unique properties and have potential in different applications due to the absence of free end groups. However, efficient synthesis of cyclic polymers remains a significant challenge. In this context, a versatile flash cyclization technique assisted by a microreactor (or micromixer) is presented. Unlike the conventional batch system procedure, the cyclization of linear poly(ethylene oxide) ( l -PEO) can be instantly and completely realized in a micromixer. Successful cyclization can also be accomplished with an elevated flow rate of l -PEO and/or catalyst solution. Based on the flash character of the microreaction system, an upgraded setup is also constructed by introducing a circulation loop to recycle the catalyst solution. The cyclization time is therefore considerably shortened and the consumption of solvent is greatly reduced, which provides a significant improvement in cyclization efficiency.