Description:
Reference #: 00810
Invention Description:
The present invention provides an entirely new approach for developing well-defined polymers for the use of rosin in applications ranging from thermoplastic resins to polymer composites. More particularly, methods are provided for preparing well-defined polymers comprising rosin wherein: (i) block copolymers, random copolymers, graft copolymers, star copolymer, or organic/inorganic hybrids contain at least one polymerized monomer derived from rosin; and (ii) rosin-containing block copolymers, random copolymers, graft copolymers, star copolymer or organic/inorganic hybrids have controllable compositions and molecular weight, narrow molecular weight distribution, and end group functionality.
Potential Applications:
The tailored properties of this product have potential applications in the following areas:
- thermoplastic resins
- thermoplastic elastomers
- varnishes
- wax
- paper sizing
- adhesives
- coatings
- printing inks
- shape memory polymers
- nano-composites
- pharmaceutics
- cosmetics
- and more
Advantages and Benefits:
The use of rosins as renewable resources for the preparation of well-defined synthetic polymers (e.g. block copolymers) has not yet been explored. The major reason behind this is that most rosin-based polymers prepared by step growth polymerization or free radical polymerization lack control of polymer structures at the molecular level (molecular weight, molecular weight distribution, and functionality). This invention provides for the synthesis of well-defined, rosin-derived polymers with controllable molecular weight, low polydispersity, varied chemical topologies, and chain functionality.
Additionally, successful implementation of these polymers will enable replacement of petrochemical-based polymers, thus reducing consumption of major synthetic polymers by fossil fuels.