Functionalized UiO-66 as an efficient catalyst for the synthesis of bio-based poly(1,3-propylene sebacate)

Organometallic catalysts such as titanium-based ones are often used for the melt polycondensation to obtain polyesters. However, they are prone to hydrolysis and may discolor, which may have adverse effects on the molecular weight of the resulting polyesters and their applications. This work aims to use functionalized UiO-66 catalysts for the melt polycondensation of polyesters composed of 1,3-propanediol and 1,10-decanedioic acid ether. The melt polycondensation proceeds in two steps: esterification and polycondensation. A catalytic mechanism is proposed. Compared with tetrabutyl titanate, a classical catalyst, the functionalized UiO-66 ones are more water resistant, less toxic to, and do not discolor. It yields poly(1,3-propylene sebacate) with higher molecular weights. Thus, they are efficient and greener catalysts.