Efficient oligomerization of negatively-charged beta-amino acids at -20 degrees C

This paper describes a procedure, known as eutectic concentration, used to concentrate an aqueous solution by cooling. Using a water-soluble carbodiimide, 1-ethyl-3-(3-dimethylaminopropyl)carbodiimide, the researchers were able to accelerate the rate of polymerization of beta-amino acids when the solution was cooled to -20 degrees C. Different temperatures and solution concentrations were investigated to determine which gave the most efficient rates of polymerization. The effect of sodium chloride on the products of the reaction was also studied.