Invention Reference Number
A novel enzymatic approach enables the synthesis of sequence-controlled polyamide oligomers from simple, nylon-relevant building blocks. This biosynthetic strategy mimics nature’s precision in protein assembly to construct co-polyamides with defined monomer arrangements, offering a path toward next-generation materials with tunable physical and chemical properties.
Description
This technology utilizes a specific class of biosynthetic enzymes to catalyze the formation of oligoamides – diads, triads, and tetrads – under mild conditions and without the need for protective groups. The enzymes demonstrate distinct selectivity for monomer positioning, allowing for regioselective ligation of functionalized monomers into precisely ordered oligomers. The process accommodates a wide range of substrate types, including linear and aromatic components, enabling the modular design of polymer precursors. Enzyme cascades allow the controlled construction of multi-component oligomers directly from monomeric inputs, avoiding harsh chemical conditions associated with traditional polymer synthesis. This method lays the foundation for the scalable, sustainable production of advanced nylon-type polymers with engineered sequences, providing unique opportunities in materials science and biomanufacturing.
Benefits
- Enables regioselective synthesis of complex polyamide oligomers
- Protecting-group-free biocatalysis under mild reaction conditions
- Compatible with various polymer-relevant monomers
- Provides pathway for designer materials with defined sequence properties
Applications and Industries
- Advanced polymer and materials development
- Sustainable biomanufacturing and green chemistry
- Textiles, coatings, and structural materials
- Specialty and high-performance plastics
Contact
To learn more about this technology, email partnerships@ornl.gov or call 865-574-1051.
