polycarbonyls

Polycarbonyls are a class of synthetic polymers that contain repeating carbonyl (C=O) functional groups along their backbone. The general structural motif can be represented as –(–CO–)n–, though most polycarbonyls incorporate additional heteroatoms or substituents that modulate their physical and chemical properties. Because carbonyl groups are capable of forming strong dipole–dipole interactions and can participate in hydrogen bonding with suitable partners, polycarbonyls often exhibit relatively high glass transition temperatures and good dimensional stability.

Commercially relevant polycarbonyls are typically derived from oxoacetylated monomers such as dimethyl carbonate, urea, or bis(cyclohexyl carbonate). Polymerization is usually achieved by condensation reactions, ring‑opening polymerization, or co‑polymerization with other monomers to create alternating or random copolymers. Common synthetic routes include thermal polycondensation of di‑monocarboxylic acids with diols followed by carbonate formation, or the reaction of diisocyanates with diols to generate polyurethanes bearing carbonyl groups.

Applications of polycarbonyls span from high‑performance plastics in aerospace and automotive parts to adhesives and sealants that benefit from the polymers’ rigidity and resistance to thermal degradation. In addition, some polycarbonyls are explored as biodegradable materials, where carbonyl‐rich backbones can be hydrolyzed under physiological conditions. Research continues into tailoring chain microstructure and introducing functional side groups to improve compatibility with composites, enhance toughness, or impart light‑weight properties for advanced engineering materials.