Featured Review: Structures and Synthesis of Zwitterionic Polymers
André Laschewsky1,2
1Fraunhofer Institute of Applied Polymer Research IAP, Geiselbergstr.69, 14476 Potsdam-Golm, Germany, 2 Department of Chemistry, Universität Potsdam, Karl-Liebknechtstr.24–25, 14476 Potsdam-Golm, Germany
Abstract: The structures and synthesis of polyzwitterions (“polybetaines”) are reviewed, emphasizing the literature of the past decade. Particular attention is given to the general challenges faced, and to successful strategies to obtain polymers with a true balance of permanent cationic and anionic groups, thus resulting in an overall zero charge. Also, the progress due to applying new methodologies from general polymer synthesis, such as controlled polymerization methods or the use of “click” chemical reactions is presented. Furthermore, the emerging topic of responsive (“smart”) polyzwitterions is addressed. The considerations and critical discussions are illustrated by typical examples.
André Laschewsky has held a combined position as professor for Polymer Chemistry at the University of Potsdam (Germany) and as a scientific director at the Fraunhofer Institute of Applied Polymer Research (IAP) since 2001. Previously, he held positions at the Université catholique de Louvain (Belgium), E. I. Dupont de Nemours (Wilmington, Delaware) and the University of Mainz (Germany). His research interests can be listed as the design, synthesis and investigation of new functional monomers and polymers, with a focus on supramolecular systems, surfaces and nanotechnology. Particular emphasis has been given to aqueous media, biomicking/bioinspired materials, and self-organizing systems. A major objective is the understanding of how macroscopic properties and behavior of polymers can be correlated with their microscopic and mesoscopic structure. Laschewsky Website
