Ring-opening polymerization of l-lactide catalyzed by robust magnesium–sodium/lithium heterobimetallic complexes

Two heterobimetallic complexes of [(TBBP)2Mg][(Na)2(THF)4] 1 [TTBP-H2 = 2,2′-dihydroxy-3,3′,5,5′-tetra-tert-butyl-1,1′-diphenyl] and [(TBBP)2Mg][(Li)2(THF)4] 2 can initiate the ring-opening polymerization of l-lactide. And the experiment results show that complex 1 can initiate the ring-opening polymerization of l-lactide under an air atmosphere with high conversion, indicated that 1 is a robust catalyst in the polymerization of l-LA.

Graphical abstractTwo heterobimetallic complexes of [(TBBP)2Mg][(Na)2(THF)4] 1 and [(TBBP)2Mg][(Li)2(THF)4] 2 can initiate the ring-opening polymerization of l-lactide. And complex 1 can initiate the ring-opening polymerization of l-lactide in an open atmosphere with high conversion.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideResearch highlights► Hetero-bimetallic complexes of 1–2 were prepared in an analogous manner. ► Fine crystals 1 and 2 were obtained by crystallization from THF and toluene. ► Complexes of 1–2 were used as catalyst in the polymerization of L-LA. ► Complex 1 can initiate polymerization of L-LA exposed to air with high conversion.