Using Ring Opening Metathesis Polymerization (ROMP) to Generate Water-Soluble Polymers
Primary Inventors:
Description:
Water-soluble polymers have traditionally been synthesized via free radical polymerization methods. This technology provides a facile synthesis route to water-soluble polymers by leveraging Ring Opening Metathesis Polymerization (ROMP). This novel approach allows for the use of a plurality of newly designed, norbonene-based water-soluble monomers and provides a whole new class of polymeric materials with tremendous commercial potential spanning from superabsorbent materials to contact lenses to new scaffolds for regenerative medicine.
Applications:
- Superabsorbent materials or hydrogels for the manufacture of personal disposable hygiene and healthcare products, as well as water retention or blocking agents for horticultural, agricultrual, industrial and environmental applications
- Manufacture of personal care and cosmetics products
- Manufacture of contact lenses
- Manufacture of antibiofouling polymer coatings and materials
- Development of scaffolds for regenerative medicine; bioadhesives
Advantages:
- Versatility of monomer synthesis and functionalization
- Ease of polymerization and copolymer synthesis; commercially recognized chemistry
- Wide choice of ROMP monomers and cross linkers to meet the unique needs of various end-use applications
Licensing Status:
Available for Licensing or Sponsored Research
Patent Status:
Issued Patent US 8,329,927
Docket:
UMA 08-04
For More Information:
Ling X. Shen, Ph.D., M.B.A.
Senior Licensing Officer
Commercial Ventures & Intellectual Property
Phone: 413-545-5276
E-Mail: lxshen@research.umass.edu