An epoxy thiolactone on stage: four component reactions, synthesis of poly(thioether urethane)s and the respective hydrogels

The synthesis of an epoxy thiolactone is described. The reactivity of this epoxy thiolactone towards amines is evaluated and presented in a four component reaction. Upon ring opening of the thiolactone with an amine an AB-type epoxy thiol monomer is generated which in situ starts a thiol–epoxy polymerization. The polymerization mechanism and kinetics are investigated: the influence of different parameters such as solvent, substrate concentration, and catalyst on the reaction course is explored. Finally, concepts for the formation of reactive hydrogels are presented.