Tsuyoshi Nishikawa

Assistant Professor, Graduate School of Engineering, Kyoto University *Profile is at the time of the award.

2023Inamori Research GrantsScience & Engineering

Research topics
Development of Recyclable Materials Based on Designed Depolymerization Ability of Boron-Containing Vinyl Polymers
Keyword
Summary
My research interest is elucidation of polymerization behaviors of alkenyl boronate derivatives and development of functional materials based on boron-containing polymers. In this project, I will attempt to control polymerization equilibrium of boron monomer on the basis of its molecular design. Reversible transformation between monomer and polymer is achievable by designing environment around reaction center in depolymerization (e.g., substituent on boron and polymer chain end). It will lead to development of novel technology for cycle use of macromolecular materials.

Comment

The concept of this research is utilization of unique reactivity and designability of organoboron compounds to control the properties of polymeric materials. I aim to produce novel polymer materials that exhibit reversible transformation between monomer and polymer.

Outline of Research Achievments

Alkenylboronic acid, which is commercially available as a substrate for organic reactions, was used as the monomer for atom-transfer radical polymerization. The polymerization was well controlled, and the regeneration of the boron monomer from the resulting polymer was also possible by activating the chain end group. The depolymerization ability was higher than that of conventional vinyl monomer, and it would hopefully be applicable to the development of an interconversion system between monomer and polymer.


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