The AA∗ + B∗B2 approach A simple and convenient synthetic strategy towards hyperbranched polyurea-urethanes

Abstract

Synthesizing hyperbranched polyurethanes in a one step process using commercially available raw materials: these were the primary conditions for this work. By taking advantage of intramolecular reactivity differences of isocyanate groups in diisocyanates in combination with reactivity differences of OH and NH groups in alkanolamines, it is possible to generate in situ AB2 molecules by controlling reactions of specific functional groups towards each other. This AA∗ + B∗B2 approach works without protecting groups and opens up a simple and versatile strategy towards hyperbranched aromatic as well as aliphatic polyureaurethanes. Preferential diisocyanates for this synthesis were 2,4-toluylene diisocyanate and isophorone diisocyanate, whereas diethanolamine and diisopropanolamine were used as isocyanate-reactive counterparts.