Taking the Next Step—Model‐Based Analysis of Robust and Non‐Toxic Zn Catalysts for the Ring Opening Polymerization of Lactide in the Polymer Melt

Abstract In the field of bioplastics, complete kinetic models are rare but needed for industrial scale‐up. Herein, a model is developed to describe behavior robust and nontoxic guanidine carboxy Zn complexes in lab‐scale ring opening polymerization (ROP) l ‐lactide, mimicking melt presence co‐initiator. The includes inter‐ intramolecular transesterification random chain scission, considering single site activity studied catalyst class, based upon “asme”‐ligand already established lactide ROP. This allows description reaction rate constants prediction conversion as well molar mass dispersity obtained polymer. It further shown that can be applied same characteristics faster, next generation catalysts on archetype “asme” catalyst. lays foundation faster design, targeting needs industry developing fast alternatives industrially used toxic ROP Sn octanoate, bridging gap between academia industry.