Synthesis of High Molecular Weight Polycarbonates Using Supercritical CO2

摘要

The research reported herein describes the first use of supercritical CO2 with solid state polymerization to produce high molecular weight polycarbonate. It was found that the increase in molecular weight is a strong function of CO2 pressure and temperature. Further, the solid state polymerization of polycarbonate in the presence of supercritical CO2 can be accomplished at temperatures as low as 90 0C. This suppresses side reactions that lead to colorbody formation and produces polycarbonate with excellent optical clarity and color. This synthesis can be scaled-up to industrial levels and could completely eliminate the use and production of toxic chemicals, significantly reduces the reaction temperature, and generates high-quality polycarbonate for use as transparent armor and numerous other commercial applications.