Lactone Polymerization and Polymer Properties

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Abstract
The polymerization of lactones provides a facile route to polyesters that is unimpeded by the long reaction cycles and elevated temperatures inherent in the condensation of hydroxyl and acid functional groups. Depending on the structure of the lactone monomer, catalyst/initiator systems are known which allow preparation of extremely high molecular weight polyesters of low polydispersity. In addition to obtaining high molecular weight polyesters in relatively short reaction cycles and at moderate temperature, lactone polymerization allows careful control of polymer end groups through proper selection of the initiating species. The type of end group plays an important role in both the thermal stability and hydrolytic stability of the resulting polyester. This study reviews and updates the field of lactone polymerization with specific emphasis on the chemistry and Theological