Formamide in the construction of functional polymers

• Grant number: 24/17873-1
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants
• Start date: April 01, 2025
• End date: March 31, 2028
• Field of knowledge: Physical Sciences and Mathematics - Chemistry - Organic Chemistry
• Principal Investigator: Leandro Helgueira de Andrade
• Grantee: Leandro Helgueira de Andrade
• Host Institution: Instituto de Química (IQ). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Paulo , SP, Brazil

Abstract

The synthetic exploration of compounds (C1) derived from CO2, such as methanol, formaldehyde, formic acid, formic esters and formamide, is an alternative way to incorporate carbon into highly complex molecules with high added value. The most studied C1 compound in the literature is carbon dioxide, however its participation in chemical reactions with low energy efficiency and atomic efficiency is a challenge to be overcome. Thus, in this project we intend to develop synthetic methodologies for renewable polymers that explore formamide (HCONH2) as a source of C1. Among the factors that will be considered during the development of the project are: choice of renewable raw materials, reactions with high atomic efficiency, catalytic reactions and processes with low E-Factor. Furthermore, the understanding of the properties (e.g.: toxicity and biodegradability) of these new polymers can drive us to new technological applications. (AU)