Ring-Opening Polymerization with Zn(C6F5)2-Based Lewis Pairs: Original and Efficient Approach to Cyclic Polyesters

Dual systems combining Zn(C6F5)2 with an organic base (an amine or a phosphine) promote the controlled ring-opening polymerization of lactide and ε-caprolactone. The Lewis pairs cooperate to activate the monomers, affording well-defined high molecular weight cyclic polyesters. Efficient chain-extension gives access to cyclic block copolymers.