‘Immortal’ ring-opening polymerization of ω-pentadecalactone by Mg(BHT)2(THF)2

Abstract

The ‘immortal’ ring-opening polymerization (iROP) of pentadecalactone (PDL), catalysed by magnesium 2,6-di-tert-butyl-4-methylphenoxide (Mg(BHT)₂(THF)₂) is reported for the first time. The polymerization was shown to occur without the requirement for extensive drying techniques or inert atmosphere whilst retaining end-group fidelity. The iROP technique is also further demonstrated to be applicable to ε-caprolactone (εCL).