RING-OPENING LAUROLACTAM POLYMERIZATION WITH LATENT INITIATORS

The present invention relates to a rapid and innovative mechanism for initiating anionic ring-opening polymerization of laurolactam by means of latent initiators on the basis of thermally activatable N-heterocyclic carbene compounds, such as, more particularly, N-heterocyclic carbene-CO2 compounds and carbene-metal compounds (NHCs). With the new initiation mechanism it is possible accordingly to realize molecular weights (Mw) of from 2000 up to more than 30,000 g/mol, and narrow polydispersities. The polymerizations may be carried out both in bulk and in solution in a suitable solvent. Compounds of this type are thermally latent and on heating initiate a polymerization to polylaurolactam in high yields, up to a quantitative conversion, whereas at room temperature there is no reaction. Polydispersity and molecular weight of the polylaurolactam can be adjusted through the choice of the initiator and of the reaction conditions.