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Synthesis of Advanced Polymer Materials 2.0

A special issue of International Journal of Molecular Sciences (ISSN 1422-0067). This special issue belongs to the section "Macromolecules".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (10 April 2024) | Viewed by 5451

Special Issue Editor


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Guest Editor
School of Materials Science and Engineering, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
Interests: polymer chemistry; polymer synthesis; catalytic olefin polymerization; organometallic catalysts; metal-catalyzed polymerization; polyolefins
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Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Polymer materials are found in almost every material used in daily life, and their importance has been highlighted because of their wide applications. With the rapid development of modern society, developing new and/or advanced polymer materials is constantly required. Therefore, the synthesis of advanced polymers has attracted considerable attention. This Special Issue of the International Journal of Molecular Sciences will focus on a collection of excellent research articles and review papers related to the synthesis of advanced polymer materials involving polymer synthesis, polymer chemistry, and polymer functionalization and modification. Every paper submitted for consideration is welcomed to report novel synthesis techniques, new synthesis methods and approaches (especially catalytic systems for polymer synthesis), new polymer materials originating from new monomers or comonomers, chemical modifications of polymers, etc.

Due to the success of the first edition of this Special Issue, we would like to add more results and new insights from recent research projects.

https://www.mdpi.com/journal/ijms/special_issues/XP94U2A650

Prof. Dr. Haiyang Gao
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

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Keywords

  • polymer synthesis
  • polymer chemistry
  • coordination polymerization
  • organometallic catalysts
  • polyolefin
  • degradable polymer materials
  • green and sustainable polymeric materials
  • homogeneous polymerization
  • heterogeneous polymerization

Related Special Issue

Published Papers (7 papers)

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Research

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15 pages, 2667 KiB  
Article
Controlled Molecular Arrangement of Cinnamic Acid in Layered Double Hydroxide through pi-pi Interaction for Controlled Release
by Taeho Kim, Seung-Min Paek, Kang-Kyun Wang, Jin Kuen Park, Fabrice Salles and Jae-Min Oh
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(8), 4506; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25084506 - 19 Apr 2024
Viewed by 177
Abstract
Cinnamic acid (CA) was successfully incorporated into Zn-Al layered double hydroxide (LDH) through coprecipitation. The CA moiety was stabilized in the interlayer space through not only electrostatic interaction but also intermolecular π-π interaction. It was noteworthy that the CA arrangement was fairly independent [...] Read more.
Cinnamic acid (CA) was successfully incorporated into Zn-Al layered double hydroxide (LDH) through coprecipitation. The CA moiety was stabilized in the interlayer space through not only electrostatic interaction but also intermolecular π-π interaction. It was noteworthy that the CA arrangement was fairly independent of the charge density of LDH, showing the important role of the layer–CA and CA-CA interactions in molecular stabilization. Computer simulations using the Monte Carlo method as well as analytical approaches including infrared, UV-vis spectroscopy, and differential scanning calorimetry showed the existence of intermolecular interaction. In order to reinforce molecular stabilization, a neutral derivative of CA, cinnamaldehyde (CAD), was additionally incorporated into LDH. It was clearly shown that CAD played a role as a π-π interaction mediator to enhance the stabilization of CA. The time-dependent release of CA from LDH was first governed by the layer charge density of LDH; however, the existence of CAD provided additional stabilization to the CA arrangement to slow down the release kinetics. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Synthesis of Advanced Polymer Materials 2.0)
16 pages, 7203 KiB  
Article
Transient Behavior and Control of Polyethylene Production in a Fluidized Bed Reactor Utilizing Population Balance Model
by Nayef Ghasem
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(5), 2602; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25052602 - 23 Feb 2024
Viewed by 579
Abstract
In this study, a fluidized bed reactor for polyethylene production was employed using a dry mode approach, where the recycle stream may contain components of a nature that cannot be condensed through standard cooling. To analyze the behavior of the fluidized bed reactors [...] Read more.
In this study, a fluidized bed reactor for polyethylene production was employed using a dry mode approach, where the recycle stream may contain components of a nature that cannot be condensed through standard cooling. To analyze the behavior of the fluidized bed reactors during the copolymerization of ethylene with butene, a dynamic population balance model was employed. The study includes sensitivity analyses through computer simulations to examine the variations in reactor temperature, molecular weights, catalyst feed rate, and monomer/comonomer concentrations in the fluidized bed reactor. It is noteworthy that the reactor exhibits instability under normal operational conditions and is sensitive to changes in the catalyst feed rate and coolant temperature of the heat exchanger. The findings also highlight challenges such as temperature fluctuations above the polymer melting point. This underscores the importance of implementing a temperature control system to prevent issues like reactor shutdown due to elevated temperatures. Dynamic instabilities were observed under specific circumstances and were successfully controlled using Proportional Integral Derivative (PID) control strategies. The population balance model is essential for understanding the complexity of transient polymerization reactions. It enables researchers to simulate and optimize polymerization processes by utilizing the detailed kinetics of the reaction. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Synthesis of Advanced Polymer Materials 2.0)
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12 pages, 3657 KiB  
Communication
Theoretical and Experimental Study of Different Side Chains on 3,4-Ethylenedioxythiophene and Diketopyrrolopyrrole-Derived Polymers: Towards Organic Transistors
by Shiwei Ren, Wenqing Zhang, Jinyang Chen and Abderrahim Yassar
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(2), 1099; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25021099 - 16 Jan 2024
Viewed by 563
Abstract
In this research, two polymers of P1 and P2 based on monomers consisting of thiophene, 3,4-Ethylenedioxythiophene (EDOT) and diketopyrrolopyrrole (DPP) are designed and obtained via Stille coupling polycondensation. The material shows excellent coplanarity and structural regularity due to the fine planarity of DPP [...] Read more.
In this research, two polymers of P1 and P2 based on monomers consisting of thiophene, 3,4-Ethylenedioxythiophene (EDOT) and diketopyrrolopyrrole (DPP) are designed and obtained via Stille coupling polycondensation. The material shows excellent coplanarity and structural regularity due to the fine planarity of DPP itself and the weak non-covalent bonding interactions existing between the three units. Two different lengths of non-conjugated side chains are introduced and this has an effect on the intermolecular chain stacking, causing the film absorption to display different characteristic properties. On the other hand, the difference in the side chains does not have a significant effect on the thermal stability and the energy levels of the frontier orbitals of the materials, which is related to the fact that the materials both feature extremely high conjugation lengths and specific molecular compositions. Microscopic investigations targeting the side chains provide a contribution to the further design of organic semiconductor materials that meet device requirements. Tests based on organic transistors show a slight difference in conductivity between the two polymers, with P2 having better hole mobility than P1. This study highlights the importance of the impact of side chains on device performance, especially in the field of organic electronics. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Synthesis of Advanced Polymer Materials 2.0)
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18 pages, 7895 KiB  
Article
Constant Magnetic Field as a Tool for Modification of the Properties of Polymer Composites with Silicone Rubber Matrix
by Ewa Miękoś, Marek Zieliński, Michał Cichomski, Tomasz Klepka, Dorota Czarnecka-Komorowska, Dariusz Sroczyński and Anna Fenyk
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2023, 24(23), 16625; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms242316625 - 22 Nov 2023
Viewed by 691
Abstract
The aim of this research was to obtain new polymer composites with a silicone rubber matrix, having favorable mechanical and functional properties. They contained admixtures in the amount of 10% by weight of expanded graphite (EG) or birch bark (BB). Additionally, some composites [...] Read more.
The aim of this research was to obtain new polymer composites with a silicone rubber matrix, having favorable mechanical and functional properties. They contained admixtures in the amount of 10% by weight of expanded graphite (EG) or birch bark (BB). Additionally, some composites contained magnetic particles in the form of carbonyl iron in the amount of 20% by weight. The tensile strength, water absorption, frost resistance, surface contact angle, and free surface energy were examined. Microscopic images were taken using the SEM method and the content of some elements in selected microareas was determined using the EDXS method. In the study, a constant magnetic field with magnetic induction B was used, by means of which the properties and structure of polymer composites were modified. Scientific research in the field of polymers is the driving force behind the progress of civilization. Smart materials are able to respond to external stimuli, such as magnetic fields, with significant changes in their properties. The magnetic field affects not only chemical reactions, but also the crystallographic structure and physicochemical properties of the final products. Owing to their unique properties, such materials can be used in the space industry, automotive industry, or electrical engineering. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Synthesis of Advanced Polymer Materials 2.0)
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12 pages, 2053 KiB  
Article
Experimental–Density Functional Theory (DFT) Study of the Inhibitory Effect of Furan Residues in the Ziegler–Natta Catalyst during Polypropylene Synthesis
by Joaquín Hernández-Fernández, Esneyder Puello-Polo and Edgar Marquez
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2023, 24(18), 14368; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms241814368 - 21 Sep 2023
Viewed by 1102
Abstract
In this experimental–theoretical study, the effect of furan on Ziegler–Natta catalyst productivity, melt flow index (MFI), and mechanical properties of polypropylene were investigated. Through the analysis of the global and local reactivity of the reagents, it was determined that the furan acts as [...] Read more.
In this experimental–theoretical study, the effect of furan on Ziegler–Natta catalyst productivity, melt flow index (MFI), and mechanical properties of polypropylene were investigated. Through the analysis of the global and local reactivity of the reagents, it was determined that the furan acts as an electron donor. In contrast, the titanium of the ZN catalyst acts as an electron acceptor. It is postulated that this difference in reactivity could lead to forming a furan–titanium complex, which blocks the catalyst’s active sites and reduces its efficiency for propylene polymerization. Theoretical results showed a high adsorption affinity of furan to the active site of the Ti catalyst, indicating that furan tends to bind strongly to the catalyst, thus blocking the active sites and decreasing the availability for propylene polymerization. The experimental data revealed that the presence of furan significantly reduced the productivity of the ZN catalyst by 10, 20, and 41% for concentrations of 6, 12.23, and 25.03 ppm furan, respectively. In addition, a proportional relationship was observed between the furan concentration and the MFI melt index of the polymer, where the higher the furan concentration, the higher the MFI. Likewise, the presence of furan negatively affected the mechanical properties of polypropylene, especially the impact Izod value, with percentage decreases of 9, 18, and 22% for concentrations of 6, 12.23, and 25.03 ppm furan, respectively. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Synthesis of Advanced Polymer Materials 2.0)
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17 pages, 6273 KiB  
Article
A Rigid–Flexible and Multi-Siloxane Bridge Strategy for Toughening Epoxy Resin with Promising Flame Retardancy, Mechanical, and Dielectric Properties
by Dingsi Li, Shufeng Lin, Jiahui Hao, Baohan He, Huagui Zhang and Mingfeng Chen
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2023, 24(18), 14059; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms241814059 - 13 Sep 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1056
Abstract
Developing highly efficient and multifunctional epoxy resins (EPs) that overcome the shortcomings of flammability and brittleness is crucial for pursuing sustainable and safe application but remains a huge challenge. In this paper, a novel biomass-containing intumescent flame retardant containing a rigid–flexible and multi-siloxane [...] Read more.
Developing highly efficient and multifunctional epoxy resins (EPs) that overcome the shortcomings of flammability and brittleness is crucial for pursuing sustainable and safe application but remains a huge challenge. In this paper, a novel biomass-containing intumescent flame retardant containing a rigid–flexible and multi-siloxane bridge structure (DPB) was synthesized using siloxane; 9,10-dihydro-9-oxa-10-phosphaphenanthrene 10-oxide (DOPO); and biomass vanillin. DPB could facilitate the formation of a carbon residual with an intumescent structure, which effectively blocked the propagation of heat and oxygen. As a result, the peak heat release rate (pHRR) and total heat release (THR) of DPB/EP-7.5 decreased by 38.8% and 45.0%, respectively. In terms of mechanical properties, the tensile and flexural elongations at break of DPB/EP-7.5 increased by 77.2% and 105.3%, respectively. Impressively, DPB/EP-7.5 had excellent dielectric properties, with a dielectric constant of 2.5–2.9. This was due to the Si-O bonds (multi-siloxane bridges) contained in DPB/EP, which can quench the polarization behavior of the hydroxyl group. This paper provides a facile strategy for the preparation of multifunctional EP, which will pave the way for the promotion and application of EP in the high-end field. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Synthesis of Advanced Polymer Materials 2.0)
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Review

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19 pages, 4470 KiB  
Review
Recent Advances in Synthesis of Non-Alternating Polyketone Generated by Copolymerization of Carbon Monoxide and Ethylene
by Xieyi Xiao, Handou Zheng, Heng Gao, Zhaocong Cheng, Chunyu Feng, Jiahao Yang and Haiyang Gao
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(2), 1348; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25021348 - 22 Jan 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 771
Abstract
The copolymers of carbon monoxide (CO) and ethylene, namely aliphatic polyketones (PKs), have attracted considerable attention due to their unique property and degradation. Based on the arrangement of the ethylene and carbonyl groups in the polymer chain, PKs can be divided into perfect [...] Read more.
The copolymers of carbon monoxide (CO) and ethylene, namely aliphatic polyketones (PKs), have attracted considerable attention due to their unique property and degradation. Based on the arrangement of the ethylene and carbonyl groups in the polymer chain, PKs can be divided into perfect alternating and non-perfect alternating copolymers. Perfect alternating PKs have been previously reviewed, we herein focus on recent advances in the synthesis of PKs without a perfect alternating structure including non-perfect alternating PKs and PE with in-chain ketones. The chain structure of PKs, catalytic copolymerization mechanism, and non-alternating polymerization catalysts including phosphine–sulfonate Pd, diphosphazane monoxide (PNPO) Pd/Ni, and phosphinophenolate Ni catalysts are comprehensively summarized. This review aims to enlighten the design of ethylene/CO non-alternating polymerization catalysts for the development of new polyketone materials. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Synthesis of Advanced Polymer Materials 2.0)
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