Linear Poly(ethylene imine) - Optimized Synthesis and Characterization on the Way to "Pharmagrade" Batches

Tauhardt, Lutz; Kempe, Kristian; Knop, Katrin; Altuntas, Esra; Jäger, Michael; Schubert, Stephanie; Fischer, Dagmar; Schubert, Ulrich S.

Abstract:

The synthesis of linear polyethyleneimine (LPEI) by acidic hydrolysis of poly(2-ethyl-2-oxazoline) is studied and optimized to reach the highest degree of hydrolysis within the shortest time range using a microwave synthesizer. In addition, the purification procedure is significantly improved; the fast batch processing combined with an excellent control of the actual heating time represents a well-suited alternative to the conventional synthesis on the way to ‘‘pharmagrade’’ PEI. The developed protocol for the preparation of methyl and proton-initiated LPEIs shows a high reproducibility, and the identity and purity of the LPEIs is proven by means of 1H NMR and IR spectroscopy as well as MALDI-TOF- and ESI-QTOF- MS.

Year:

2011

Type of Publication:

Article

Journal:

Macromolecular Chemistry and Physics

Volume:

212

Pages:

1918 - 1924