The Tang Group focuses on mechanism-driven innovation in polymerization methods, aiming to create structurally controllable and functionally tunable polyester-based materials. Our research spans high-performance polyesters, poly(ester amide) architectures, and emerging polymerization strategies that connect small-molecule reactivity with macromolecular design.

1. Catalytic Ring-Opening Polymerization for Precision Control of Polyester Architectures

We design and develop new catalytic systems, particularly metal-based complexes, to precisely regulate polymer microstructures, including chain sequence, topology, and stereoregularity. These strategies enable the creation of advanced polyester materials with enhanced thermal stability, mechanical robustness, and chemical resistance.

2. Alternating Ring-Opening Copolymerization Platforms for Poly(ester amide)s and Poly(thioester amide)s

We establish alternating ring-opening copolymerization methods for aziridines with (thio)anhydrides, providing access to degradable, functionally versatile poly((thio)ester amide) materials with tunable properties and diverse structural possibilities.

3. Small-Molecule–Inspired Polymerization Pathways for Sustainable Materials

We explore new polymerization routes for a wide range of small-molecule monomers, including CO₂ fixation via copolymerization with unsaturated hydrocarbons and the adaptation of classical small-molecule reactions into step-growth polymerization. These efforts enable sustainable polymer platforms with controllable structures and programmable properties.