Fern’s latest work explores the use of two derivatives of lactide, each of which features an exocyclic olefin, and their pre-polymerization modification by olefin cross-metathesis. The ring-opening polymerization of these new monomers, and their hydrogenated congeners, is facilitated by organo- and Lewis-acid catalysts. Together, they offer a new strategy for derivatizing and altering the properties of poly(lactic acid).
Green Materials Laboratory 