The Stability of Aliphatic Azo Linkages Influences the Controlled Scission of Degradable Polyurethanes
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
8-17-2021
School
Polymer Science and Engineering
Abstract
A better understanding of polymer degradation and post-degradation processes are essential for the development of novel degradable polymers. Herein, we present the synthesis of a new aliphatic azo-containing polyurethane and its degradation behavior toward external stimuli like heat and UV light. A relatively stable radical forming azo-monomer present in the current polyurethane is readily undergoing thermal degradation, whereas the azo-group is less susceptible to optical degradation. A comparison of the stimuli-responsive properties of the new azo-polymer with a previously known, relatively active radical forming monomer incorporated azo-polymer reveals the dependencies of the monomer and radical stability in the controlled degradation process. Our results point toward the importance of radical activity in azo-containing polymers.
Publication Title
Journal of Polymer Science
Recommended Citation
Rajappan, S.,
Davis, B.,
Thornell, T.,
Simon, Y.
(2021). The Stability of Aliphatic Azo Linkages Influences the Controlled Scission of Degradable Polyurethanes. Journal of Polymer Science.
Available at: https://aquila.usm.edu/fac_pubs/19271