BACKA Scalable and Versatile Method for Preparing Single-Chain Nanoparticles Using Reversible Addition- Fragmentation Chain Transfer (RAFT) Polymerization
[Licensing negotiation in progress]
[Invitation for Expression of Interest- Deadline 30 March 2021]
We are inviting expressions of interest (EoI) for commercializing “A Scalable and Versatile Method for Preparing Single-Chain Nanoparticles Using Reversible Addition-Fragmentation Chain Transfer (RAFT) Polymerization” technology. The innovation is developed by Professor BIAN Liming, Department of Biomedical Engineering of The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK Reference: 16/ENG/741)
The Technology
Single-Chain nanoparticles (SCNPs) are emerging polymeric materials because of their potential applications in catalysis, biosensors, nanoreactors, nanomedicine, and numerous other fields. SCNPs are usually prepared through the delicate intrachain cross-linking of functional polymers, a procedure mimicking the folding of natural macromolecules such as proteins and enzymes. These intrachain cross-linking strategies involve complex synthetic designs and tedious post-polymerization modifications. Furthermore, to avoid interchain reactions, highly dilute conditions (generally around 0.01-0.5 w/v%) are usually necessary for preparing SCNPs by using such intrachain folding techniques, and this severely hinders the large-scale industrial production and application of SCNPs. Therefore, a facile, versatile, and scalable method for preparing SCNPs is highly desired. Herein, we propose a simple but efficient technique for scaling up the synthesis of SCNPs. The key concept is to form intrachain cross-links directly during polymer chain propagation. Such process is mediated by a macromolecular chain transfer agent (macro-CTA) containing protective wings blocks that prevent interchain cross-linking at high polymer concentrations. Specifically, this method entails the use of trithiocarbonates as the symmetrical CTAs that enable the formation of a second block in the middle of the first wing blocks. Initially, the first linear wing blocks are formed on both sides of the trithiocarbonate group via RAFT polymerization. During the subsequent formation of the second block in the middle, the first wing block act as outer protective structures for the propagating middle block. In the presence of cross-linkers, these two outer blocks protect the propagating middle blocks from interchain contact and cross-linking, thus enabling the synthesis of intrachain cross-linked SCNPs at high concentrations.
Commercialization
The technology is now available for licensing on an exclusive basis. In order to fully realize the benefit of the technology, we expect substantial investment is necessary to enable further research and development. In addition to the financial commitment, the licensee is expected to have the appropriate expertise as well as plans in marketing and strategizing the end product to ensure successful transfer of the technology to the society. Previous or existing business involvement and experience in this area is a plus.
This invitation of expression of interest is without prejudice. We also stress that this invitation is not a tender, and the University is not bound to accept any offer, or to accept the highest monetary offer, as there are additional considerations (such as the widest possible benefit to the community) that we, as a public institution, will need to take into consideration.
A Scalable and Versatile Method for Preparing Single-Chain Nanoparticles Using Reversible Addition- Fragmentation Chain Transfer (RAFT) Polymerization
[Licensing negotiation in progress]
[Invitation for Expression of Interest- Deadline 30 March 2021]
We are inviting expressions of interest (EoI) for commercializing “A Scalable and Versatile Method for Preparing Single-Chain Nanoparticles Using Reversible Addition-Fragmentation Chain Transfer (RAFT) Polymerization” technology. The innovation is developed by Professor BIAN Liming, Department of Biomedical Engineering of The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK Reference: 16/ENG/741)
The Technology
Single-Chain nanoparticles (SCNPs) are emerging polymeric materials because of their potential applications in catalysis, biosensors, nanoreactors, nanomedicine, and numerous other fields. SCNPs are usually prepared through the delicate intrachain cross-linking of functional polymers, a procedure mimicking the folding of natural macromolecules such as proteins and enzymes. These intrachain cross-linking strategies involve complex synthetic designs and tedious post-polymerization modifications. Furthermore, to avoid interchain reactions, highly dilute conditions (generally around 0.01-0.5 w/v%) are usually necessary for preparing SCNPs by using such intrachain folding techniques, and this severely hinders the large-scale industrial production and application of SCNPs. Therefore, a facile, versatile, and scalable method for preparing SCNPs is highly desired. Herein, we propose a simple but efficient technique for scaling up the synthesis of SCNPs. The key concept is to form intrachain cross-links directly during polymer chain propagation. Such process is mediated by a macromolecular chain transfer agent (macro-CTA) containing protective wings blocks that prevent interchain cross-linking at high polymer concentrations. Specifically, this method entails the use of trithiocarbonates as the symmetrical CTAs that enable the formation of a second block in the middle of the first wing blocks. Initially, the first linear wing blocks are formed on both sides of the trithiocarbonate group via RAFT polymerization. During the subsequent formation of the second block in the middle, the first wing block act as outer protective structures for the propagating middle block. In the presence of cross-linkers, these two outer blocks protect the propagating middle blocks from interchain contact and cross-linking, thus enabling the synthesis of intrachain cross-linked SCNPs at high concentrations.
Commercialization
The technology is now available for licensing on an exclusive basis. In order to fully realize the benefit of the technology, we expect substantial investment is necessary to enable further research and development. In addition to the financial commitment, the licensee is expected to have the appropriate expertise as well as plans in marketing and strategizing the end product to ensure successful transfer of the technology to the society. Previous or existing business involvement and experience in this area is a plus.
This invitation of expression of interest is without prejudice. We also stress that this invitation is not a tender, and the University is not bound to accept any offer, or to accept the highest monetary offer, as there are additional considerations (such as the widest possible benefit to the community) that we, as a public institution, will need to take into consideration.
Chemistry & Material Science
Medical Imaging
Fei Fei Miu
Office of Research and Knowledge Transfer Services
Liming BIAN
Xiaoyu CHEN
Kongchang Wei
N/A