Main-Chain Calix[4]arene Elastomers by Ring-Opening Metathesis Polymerization

Alkene-bridged calix[4]arene monomers were synthesized by ring-closing metathesis (RCM). All
the three possible conformers (cone, partial cone, and 1,3-alternate) were used as comonomers with cyclooctene
and norbornene in ring-opening metathesis polymerization (ROMP). The resultant polymers were high-molecular-weight, transparent and stretchable materials with high calixarene incorporation (up to 25 mol % or 70 wt %) and
low glass transition temperatures.