Synthesis, characterization, and fluorescence properties of new polyethers derived from curcumin analogs

Abstract

Polyether is a synthetic polymer that has low toxicity and, therefore, it is used in many applications. It can be used as a detergent, emulsifier, drug excipient, pesticide emulsifier, antiseptic, and papermaking additive agent. This study outlines the synthesis, characterization, and fluorescence evaluation of polyethers derived from curcumin analogs. Condensation polymerization of curcumin analogs and dibromoalkanes produces the corresponding polyethers. The Fourier-transform infrared and proton nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy confirmed the structures of the newly synthesized polyethers. The thermal stability and solubility of the synthesized polyethers of various solvents were investigated. They showed high stability at high temperatures as thermoplastics. The synthesized polyethers have fluorescent properties in solutions, and the absorption and intensity were dependent on the type of functional groups present in the polymers. The fluorination intensity of polyethers was found to be dependent on the presence of electron-donating groups, the pH of the solution, and the type of solvent used. One of the synthesized polyethers exhibited strong emissive properties at one or two specific wavelengths.