Repositori URV

Identifier: TDX:1310

Handle: https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11797/TDX1310

Authors:
Lluch Porres, Cristina

Abstract:
The development of polymeric materials from renewable resources is receiving considerable attention as a consequence of the depleting of fossil resources and environmental issues. Moreover, maximizing the benefits of using renewable feedstocks requires the utilization of sustainable and efficient chemical transformations, exemplified by Click/Click-type chemistry reactions. In addition, the design of highly functionalized polymers with adjustable properties and thus, broader applicability is also consistent with the concept of sustainability. To this aim, in this thesis, we have explored the wide opportunities that these efficient transformations can offer in the different steps involved in the production of polymers (monomer synthesis, polymerization and polymer modification) based on undecylenic and oleic acids, as castor and sunflower oil derivatives. In particular, we have explored thiol-ene couplings to prepare new polycarboxylic monomers but also to polymerize fatty acids derivatives as well as post-modify the chain-ends of new biobased macromonomers. Thiol-yne chemistry has been also explored as polymerization tool of alkynic fatty acid derivatives. In addition, a bromine containing polyester derived from castor oil has been also prepared and its nucleophilic substitution with thiols, amines and carboxylic acids has been studied. Finally, the application of the new synthesized polymers as drug delivery carriers or antimicrobial coatings has been evaluated.