Degradable polymers and monomers therefor

Abstract

Hydroxyacetal or hydroxyketal monomers, processes for their preparation, their use to produce degradable polymers, hydroxy-functional intermediates resulting from degradation, and repurposed polymers made from the hydroxy-functional intermediates are described. The invention avoids the energy-intensive conditions normally used to degrade polyurethanes and generates new hydroxy-functional intermediates that can be repurposed or upcycled. Polyurethanes and melamines, materials once destined for a landfill, can have a second life. Incorporation of a photoacid generator into microcapsule core materials and fabrication of the shell from the hydroxy-functional acetal or ketal monomers promotes facile, inside-out, solid-state degradation of the microcapsule shell triggered by UV light and acid generation in a hydrophobic environment. This enables controlled release of flavors, fragrances, biocides, agricultural actives, or other oil-based beneficial agents from within the microcapsules.