The discovery and commercialization of group transfer polymerization

Group transfer polymerization (GTP) is a fundamentally new method for polymerization of acrylic monomers, discovered at DuPont over 20 years ago. It allows one to make block and other specialized polymer chain architecture at above ambient temperature. The method uses silyl ketene acetals as initiators and requires a nucleophilic catalyst. DuPont uses the process to make dispersing agents for pigmented inks and automobile finishes. The development of GTP from its discovery to introduction of commercial products is presented.