BR112019011754B1 - POLYMER COMPRISING CARBON OF BIOLOGICAL ORIGIN, ITS OBTAINING PROCESS, ITS USE AND COMPOSITION THAT COMPRISES IT - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to a polymer comprising: (a) from 9.49 mol% to 98 mol% of repeating units according to formula (1) wherein at least 10% by weight of the repeating units according to formula (1) comprise from 28% by weight to 100% by weight of carbon content of biological material, in relation to the total mass of carbon in the repeating unit according to formula (1), as measured in accordance with the standard ASTM D6866-12, Method B; (b) from 0.01 mol% to 5 mol% crosslinking or branching units; (c) from 0.01 mol% to 88.52 mol% repetitive neutral structural units; (d) from 1.98 mol% to 20 mol% repetitive anionic structural units, where the repetitive anionic structural units result from the incorporation of a monomer comprising at least one carboxylate anion, and where the repetitive anionic structural units are different of units (a).

Description

Field of Invention

[001] The present invention relates to a polymer having a certain carbon content of biological origin obtained by polymerization, in addition to processes and uses in cosmetic applications.

Background of the Invention

[002] Cleansing and caring for the skin, scalp, and hair is very important for general hygiene, for example, for removing unwanted substances such as sebum, oils, dirt, makeup, or for humidification , coloring or protection. Many cosmetic products require a certain minimum viscosity to achieve easy application to the substrate and/or retention on the substrate being treated. Many cosmetic products comprise viscosity increasing agents or rheology influencers. These are generally called thickening agents, thickeners or gelling agents. Thickening agents used in cosmetics or personal care products include viscous liquids such as polyethylene glycol, synthetic polymers such as polyacrylic acid and vegetable gums. In the 1990s, innovative thickeners based on 2-acrylamido-2-methyl-1-propanesulfonic acid (AMPS) and its salts (EP0816403 and WO98/00094) were introduced onto the market. Both in homopolymer and copolymer form (e.g. Aristoflex® AVC from Clariant), such thickeners are in many respects superior to the corresponding polycarboxylates (Carbopols).

[003] Many materials used for use as thickeners or rheology modifiers are traditionally derived from crude oil. Environmental, economic and sustainability issues restrict the use of products derived from this limited source: synthetic surfactants, for example, have already been blamed for environmental incidents, particularly with regard to aquatic problems and rivers and lakes. Therefore, it is desirable to identify more sustainable and biodegradable, but still gentle and effective, substances. In fact, consumers are very interested in "natural" products including products with a high percentage of "natural" compounds and/or compounds that are derived from renewable materials. Consumers perceive compounds derived from natural materials as being kinder and safer for the environment. Recent industrial developments in "bio-based" chemicals are summarized, for example, in de Jong et al, "Product developments in the bio-based chemicals arena", Biofuels, Bioprod. Bioref. 6:606-624 (2012).

[004] Compounds derived from natural materials present several other benefits, including greater biodegradability and also more sustainable availability because they are not based on some limited resource. Compounds derived from plant resources are particularly useful as the parent compound can simply be re-cut. Consumers also feel particularly comfortable using compounds derived from well-known plants, specifically those that are considered staples.

[005] Recently, it was revealed that classic monomers such as ethylene, acrylic acid or methyl methacrylate are produced with renewable raw materials. Document US2014/0154758 (Arkema) discloses the preparation of methyl methacrylate where the method comprises the use of acetone cyanohydrin as raw material, said acetone cyanohydrin being obtained by condensation of hydrocyanic acid in acetone, and methyl methacrylate is prepared through a process that involves the addition of methanol. Acetone and methanol can come from renewable raw materials. Document DE 2655891 (DU PONT) discloses the oxidation of 1-propanol to acrylates. US 4,138,430 (DU PONT) discloses the amoxidation of 1-propanol to form acrylonitrile.

[006] Different synthetic routes for the synthesis of acrylonitrile from biological origin are described by M. Olga Guerrero-Péreza and Miguel A. Banares in Catalysis Today 239 (2015) 25-30. The process for the direct production of acrylonitrile from glycerol was recently described by M.O. Guerrero-Pérez, M.A. Banares, ChemSusChem 1 (2008) 511 and by M.A. Banares, M.O. Guerrero-Pérez, Appl. Catal. B (2013), as well as in documents US20100048850A1 (Arkema) and WO2009063120A1 (CONSEJO SUPERIOR DE INVESTIGACIONES CENTÍFICAS).

[007] Propylene of biological origin can be used directly in the so-called SOHIO process to form acrylonitrile. Document US2904580 (STANDARD OIL CO) describes the amoxidation of propylene according to the so-called SOHIO process.

[008] Document WO2014086780 (Global Bioenergies) discloses a fermentation method for various olefins including propene and isobutene. As already seen, propylene can be used as a raw material for ammoxidation to acrylonitrile. Isobutene is an important raw material for polyisobutene rubbers and other secondary products such as tert-butanol, isooctanol, branched alkanes or branched alcohols. Document WO2016/042011 (Global Bioenergies) describes an enzymatic method for producing isobutene from 3-methylcrotonyl-CoA. Document WO2014/004616 (Gevo Inc) discloses the synthesis of isobutanol by recombinant yeast microorganisms. Catalytic dehydration leads to isobutene.

[009] Document WO2015/034948 (MYRIANT CORP) describes the synthesis of acrylic acid of biological origin by dehydration of 1,3-propandiol and subsequent oxidation of allyl alcohol.

[0010] However, the availability of more renewable polymers suitable for use as thickening agents is quite limited. Furthermore, thickening agents are needed that are not only renewable but also provide excellent performance. It is therefore necessary to present polymers that can provide excellent performance compared to modern polymers from more sustainable sources.

Summary of the Invention

[0011] In a first aspect, the present invention relates to a polymer comprising: (a) from 9.49 mol% to 98 mol%, preferably from 27.5 mol% to 97.4 mol% mol of repeating units according to formula (1) wherein at least 10% by weight, preferably at least 20% by weight of the repeating units according to formula (1) comprise from 28% by weight to 100% by weight of carbon content of biological origin, in relation to the total mass of carbon in the repeating unit according to formula (1), as measured in accordance with ASTM D6866-12, Method B; where: R1 and R2 are independently selected from H, methyl or ethyl; A is a linear or branched C1-C12-alkyl group; and Q+ is H+, NH4+, organic ammonium ions [NHR5R6R7]+ where R5, R6, and R7 independently of each other may be hydrogen, a linear or branched alkyl group having 1 to 22 carbon atoms, a linear alkenyl group or branched, with one or multiple unsaturations having 2 to 22 carbon atoms, a C6-C22 alkylamidopropyl group, a linear monohydroxyalkyl group having 2 to carbon atoms or a linear or branched dihydroxyalkyl group having 3 to carbon atoms , and where at least one of the radicals R5, R6, and R7 is not hydrogen, or Q+ is Li+, Na+, K+, % Ca++, % Mg++, % Zn++, 1/3 AI+++, or combinations thereof; (b) from 0.01 mol% to 5 mol%, preferably from 0.01 mol% to 4 mol% of cross-linking or branching units, where the cross-linking or branching units result from the incorporation of a monomer comprising at least two olefinically unsaturated double bonds; (c) from 0.01 mol% to 88.52 mol%, preferably from 0.05 mol% to 72.4 mol% of neutral repetitive structural units, preferably where at least 10%, preferably at least 20% by weight of the repeating neutral structural units comprises from 0% by weight to 100% by weight of carbon content of biological origin, relative to the total mass of carbon in the repeating neutral structural unit, as measured in accordance with the standard ASTM D6866-12, Method B; (d) from 1.98 mol% to 20 mol%, preferably from 2.5 mol% to 18 mol% of repetitive anionic structural units, wherein the repetitive anionic structural units result from the incorporation of a monomer comprising at least at least one carboxylate anion, and where the repeating anionic structural units are different from units (a), preferably where at least 10% by weight, preferably at least 20% by weight of the repetitive anionic structural units comprise of 0% by weight to 100% by weight of carbon content of biological origin, relative to the total mass of carbon in the repeating anionic structural unit, as measured in accordance with ASTM D6866-12, Method B.

[0012] Other aspects refer to compositions, methods, uses, and processes related to the polymer disclosed in the first aspect.

Detailed Description of the Invention Definitions and generalities

[0013] In this document, including in all embodiments of all aspects of the present invention, the following definitions apply, unless specifically indicated otherwise. All percentages are by weight (w/w) of the total composition. "% by weight" means percentage by weight; "% by vol." means percentage by volume; "mol%" means mole percentage. All reasons are weighty reasons. References to ‘parts’, for example a mixture of 1 part X and 3 parts Y, indicate a weight ratio. "QS" or "QSP" means sufficient quantity for 100% or for 100 g. +/- indicates the standard deviation. All tracks are inclusive and combinable. The number of significant digits does not represent a limitation on the quantities indicated nor the accuracy of the measurements. It is understood that all numerical quantities are modified by the word "about". It is understood that all measurements are made at 23°C and ambient conditions, where "ambient conditions" means 1 atmosphere (atm) pressure and 50% relative humidity. "Relative humidity" refers to the ratio (indicated as a percentage) of the moisture content of the air compared to the saturated humidity level at the same temperature and pressure. Relative humidity can be measured with a hygrometer, in particular a probe hygrometer from VWR® International. In this order "min" means "minute" or "minutes". In this order, "mol" means mole. In this order, "g" after a number means "gram" or "grams". "Ex." means "example". All ingredient quantities listed are based on the active level (‘solids’) and do not include carriers or by-products that may be included in commercially available substances. In this application, "comprising" means that other steps and other ingredients may be included. "Comprising" encompasses the terms "consisting of" and "consisting essentially of." The compositions, formulations, methods, uses, kits, and processes of the present invention may comprise, consist of, and consist essentially of the elements and limitations of the invention described in this application, as well as any of the additional ingredients, components, steps, or limitations or options described in this order. The embodiments and aspects described in this application may comprise or be combined with elements, attributes or components of other embodiments and/or aspects although they are not expressly exemplified in combined form, unless any incompatibility is reported. "In at least one embodiment" means that one or more embodiments, optionally all embodiments or a large subset of embodiments of the present invention have the subsequently described appearance. Where quantity ranges appear, these should be interpreted as the total quantity of said solid ingredient in the composition, or where more than one species falls within the scope of the ingredient definition, the total quantity of all ingredients that fall within that definition, in the composition. For example, if the composition comprises 1% to 5% fatty alcohol, then a composition comprising 2% stearyl alcohol and 1% cetyl alcohol and no other fatty alcohol would fall within this scope.

[0014] The following acronyms are used in this report: ACDMT = acryloyldimethyltaurate; AM = acrylamide; AN = acrylonitrile; tBAM = tert-butyl acrylamide; IBSA = isobutene sulfonic acid; IBDSA = 2-methylidene-1,3-propylenedisulfonic acid.

[0015] Unless otherwise indicated, "viscosity" in this application is measured at 20°C viscosity in centipoise (cP) or mPa.s using a Brookfield model LV, RVT DV-II or LVT DVII viscometer with 10 - 90 % torque at 20 rpm.

[0016] "Molecular weight" or "M.Wt." "Mw", "Mw" or "MW" and grammatical equivalents mean the weight average molecular weight, unless otherwise indicated. Also relevant for determining molecular weight distribution is the number average molecular weight "Mn", "Mn" and grammatical equivalents, and the polydispersity "D" or "PDI". Number average molecular weight: Mn

[0017] The numerical average molecular weight is the statistical average molecular weight of all polymer chains in the sample, and is defined by: where Mi is the molecular weight of a chain and Ni is the number of chains of that molecular weight. Mn can be predicted by polymerization mechanisms and is measured by methods that determine the number of molecules in a sample of a given weight; for example, methods based on colligative properties such as end-group testing. Where Mn is cited for a molecular weight distribution, there are equal numbers of molecules on both sides of the Mn in the distribution. Weight average molecular weight: MW

[0018] The weight average molecular weight is defined by:

[0019] Compared to Mn, MW takes into account the molecular weight of a chain to determine contributions to the average molecular weight. The more massive the chain, the more it contributes to the MW. MW is determined by methods that are sensitive to molecular size, not just their number, such as light scattering techniques. Where MW is cited for the molecular weight distribution, there is an equal weight of molecules on both sides of MW in the distribution.

[0020] The PDI polydispersity index is used as a measure of the amplitude of the molecular weight distribution of a polymer, and is defined by:

[0021] The higher the PDI, the broader the molecular weight. A monodisperse polymer where all chain lengths are equal (such as a protein) has a MW/Mn=1.

[0022] The weight average molecular weight can be measured by gel permeation chromatography (GPC), also called size exclusion chromatography (SEC). The molecular weight of polymers and their measurement are described in the textbook "Principles of Polymerization" by Georg Odian, third edition, Wiley-Interscience, New York, in chapter 1-4, page 19 to 24, ISBN 0-471-61020 -8. The process for determining the weight-average molecular weight is described in detail in chapter 3 of Makromolekulare Chemie: Eine Einführung" by Bernd Tieke, Wiley-VCH, 2. vollstandig überarbeitete und erweiterte Auflage (3. Nachdruck 2010) ISBN-13: 978- 3-527-31379-2, page 259261.

[0023] The determination of the molecular weight and distribution of samples by GPC is carried out under the following conditions. Column: PSS Suprema 30,000 Â 10 μm, 300 mm x 8 mm Detector: RID Oven temperature: 23°C Flow: 1 ml/min Injection volume: 20 μl Eluent: disodium hydrogen phosphate in water at 0.07 mol/l Method calibration method: Conventional calibration with poly(styrene sulfonate) sodium salt Sample preparation: Approximate weight of 10 mg of sample in 10 ml of disodium hydrogen phosphate in water at 0.07 mol/l and stirring for 15 min.

[0024] "Water soluble" refers to any substance that is sufficiently soluble in water to form a clear solution to the naked eye at a concentration of 0.1% by weight of the substance in water at 25 °C. The term "water insoluble" refers to any substance that is not "water soluble."

[0025] "Substantially free form" or "substantially free from" means less than 1%, or less than 0.8%, or less than 0.5%, or less than 0.3%, or about 0%, in total weight of the composition or formulation.

[0026] "Monomer" means a discrete unpolymerized chemical moiety capable of undergoing polymerization in the presence of an initiator or any suitable reaction that creates a macromolecule, for example, such as radical polymerization, polycondensation, polyaddition, anionic or cationic polymerization , ring opening polymerization or coordination insertion polymerization. "Unit" means a monomer that has already been polymerized, i.e., is part of a polymer.

[0027] "Polymer" means a chemical product formed from the polymerization of two or more monomers. The term "polymer" shall include all materials made by the polymerization of monomers as well as natural polymers. Polymers made from just one type of monomer are called homopolymers. In this application, a polymer comprises at least two monomers. Polymers made from two or more different types of monomers are called copolymers. The distribution of the different monomers can be random, alternating or in blocks (i.e., block copolymer). The term "polymer" used in this application includes any type of polymer including homopolymers and copolymers.

[0028] "Fuming sulfuric acid" in this application means a solution of sulfur trioxide in sulfuric acid. Fuming sulfuric acid is also known as an oleum and is identified by CAS number 8014-95-7, and can be described by the formula H2SO4.xSO3 where x is the molar content of free sulfur trioxide.

[0029] The "content of biological origin" is described in the ASTM D6866-12 standard, Method B (see section 3.3.9 of ASTM D6866-12). "Biologically derived carbon content", "biologically derived carbon content", "biogenic carbon content", "biologically derived carbon content", "biomass-derived carbon" in this application refer to the same thing and are all measured in% in weight. In this application, the term ‘carbon content of biological origin’ is used. ASTM D6866-12, Method B laboratory results report the percentage of carbon content of biological origin in relation to total carbon, and not in relation to the sample's total mass or molecular weight. A comment on the calculation of carbon content of biological origin: Currently, ASTM D6866-12, Method B (see section 9 of ASTM D6866-12) requires that the value of the percentage of modern carbon (pMC) indicated be multiplied by a correction factor of 0.95 to account for excess carbon-14 in the atmosphere due to nuclear weapons testing. However, a revision of ASTM D6866-12, Method B is pending to update the correction factor to 0.98 due to the continued excessive reduction of 14CO2 in the atmosphere. For accuracy purposes, the new correction factor of 0.98 is often used in the field, for example by suppliers. In general, results less than ~20% bio-sourced carbon will not be affected. However, results close to 100% will be ~2-3% higher in biologically derived carbon using the 0.98 factor vs. 0.95. Results between ~20-90% will have a 0-3% increase. Therefore, the term "carbon content of biological origin", as used in this application, is defined by the equation: Carbon content of biological origin = pMC * 0.95 (%)

[0030] A review on methods of measuring carbon content of biological origin for chemical substances derived from biomass and plastics was presented by Massao Kunioka in Radioisotopes, 62, 901-925 (2013).

[0031] "Hair" means mammalian keratin fibers including scalp hair, facial hair and body hair. This term includes hair still attached to a living individual and also that which has been removed from the same such as hair samples and doll/mannequin hair. In at least one embodiment, "hair" means human hair. "Hair shaft" or "hair fiber" means an individual strand of hair and may be used interchangeably with the term "hair."

[0032] "Cosmetically acceptable" means that the described compositions, formulations or components are suitable for use in contact with human keratinous tissue without undue toxicity, incompatibility, instability, allergic response, among others. All compositions and formulations described in this application that are intended to be directly applied to keratinous tissue are limited to those that are cosmetically acceptable.

[0033] "Derivatives" include, but are not limited to, amide, ether, ester, amino, carboxyl, acetyl, acid, salt and/or alcohol derivatives of a given compound. In at least one embodiment, "derivatives thereof" means amide, ether, ester, amino, carboxyl, acetyl, acid, salt and alcohol derivatives.

[0034] Explanation of the invention and benefits offered by it Surprisingly, it has now been found that it is possible to synthesize ACDMT of good quality biological origin (see formula (3) below) with acceptable yields.

[0035] In fact, when considering genetically modified microbes for use in creating ACDMT of biological origin, such microbes are not currently commercially available. ACDMT is not similar to any other product that typical microbes would produce naturally. Furthermore, there are few natural microbial pathways capable of converting sulfonic acid groups. Therefore, the person skilled in the art naturally has a tendency in his mind that it would be difficult to produce ACDMT of biological origin in view of its chemical portions of a more synthetic type. The person skilled in the art, however, may consider that the reaction of acrylic acid with taurine, as materials of biological origin, could form the corresponding acryl-starch compound taurate, which has a similar structure compared to ACDMT. However, the reactants would preferentially react to form a Michael adduct rather than an acryl-starch taurate compound. Therefore, it would be known to those skilled in the art that synthesizing ACDMT of biological origin is not trivial.

[0036] Bianca et al (Appl Microbiol Biotechnol (2012) 93:1377 1387) state that a high level of impurities is produced when synthesizing isobutene of biological origin (2/3 carbon dioxide). Document WO2014086780A2 on pages 5 and 6 mentions various by-products and impurities that can result when synthesizing isobutene of biological origin. In fact, document WO2014086780A2 on its page 14 states that "The fermentation off-gas (i.e., a gas stream originating from the fermenter) typically comprises the hydrocarbon as the desired product and the intermediate along with additional gaseous components. In general, the Total content of the desired product, such as isobutene, and the intermediate, such as acetone, in the fermentation off-gas is in a range of 3 to 30 vol%, preferably 3 to 20 vol%. In other words, it is already known in the art that the result is a very low yield when known processes for the synthesis of isobutene of biological origin are used, as well as it is known that a significant level of by-products is produced. In fact, typically at least 98%, typically at least 99.5% purity of isobutene is used in conventional synthesis techniques. Surprisingly, it is possible to produce ACDMT of biological origin despite the use of components of biological origin that are typically impure in view of the microbes that produce the component of biological origin creating byproducts as a result of their natural enzymatic action. European patent application 16175218.3 filed on June 20, 2016 in the name of Clariant International Ltd, the description of which is incorporated in this application by way of reference, discloses the synthesis of acryloyldimethyltaurate of biological origin, which can be used as a monomer for the polymer according to the present invention.

[0037] Furthermore, it was surprisingly found that it is possible to synthesize polymers containing such new components of biological origin. Such polymers may be, for example, cross-linked copolymers.

[0038] The present invention relates inter alia to polymers containing units derived from acryloyldimethyltaurate (ACDMT) of biological origin and similar compounds. The method of preparing ACDMT typically comprises the use of acrylonitrile, isobutene and a mixture of sulfuric acid and fuming sulfuric acid comprising sulfur trioxide. Preferably, at least one of the raw materials, acrylonitrile or isobutene, is of biological origin. ACDMT of biological origin is suitable for making polymers comprising a carbon content of biological origin resulting from its share of ACDMT of biological origin.

[0039] ACDMT (see Formula [3]) consists of seven carbon atoms. Preferably a minimum of three, preferably four and most preferably all seven carbon atoms of the ACDMT molecule can become renewable carbon atoms of biological origin. In this way, a high proportion of products of biological and/or biodegradable origin (polymer) made from the ACDMT monomer of biological origin are recyclable and form part of the natural carbon cycle. If these types of products are incinerated or biodegraded, the amount of carbon dioxide that is emitted corresponds to the amount fixed by photosynthesis during biomass growth.

[0040] To date, various high-performance water-soluble or water-swellable polymers such as fluid loss reducing additives for civil construction and the construction of wells (oil and gas) as well as rheology modifiers, comprise ACDMT. Regardless of the excellent performance in their applications, such polymers are still made from ACDMT based on fossil hydrocarbons, of petrochemical origin. The present invention presents new polymers comprising ACDMT units of biological origin or similar compounds (see formula (1)), thus giving access to new polymers of biological origin with the benefits of excellent performance that conventional synthetic polymers are known for.

[0041] Details of the invention and its aspects are presented below.

FIRST ASPECT

[0042] In a first aspect, the present invention relates to a polymer comprising: (a) from 9.49 mol% to 98 mol%, preferably from 27.5 mol% to 97.4 mol% mol of repeating units according to formula (1) wherein at least 10% by weight, preferably at least 20% by weight of the repeating units according to formula (1) comprise from 28% by weight to 100% by weight of carbon content of biological origin, in relation to the total mass of carbon in the repeating unit according to formula (1), as measured in accordance with ASTM D6866-12, Method B; where: R1 and R2 are independently selected from H, methyl or ethyl; A is a linear or branched C1-C12-alkyl group; and Q+ is H+, NH4+, organic ammonium ions [NHR5R6R7]+ where R5, R6, and R7 independently of each other may be hydrogen, a linear or branched alkyl group having 1 to 22 carbon atoms, a linear alkenyl group or branched, with one or multiple unsaturations having 2 to 22 carbon atoms, a C6-C22 alkylamidopropyl group, a linear monohydroxyalkyl group having 2 to carbon atoms or a linear or branched dihydroxyalkyl group having 3 to carbon atoms , and where at least one of the radicals R5, R6, and R7 is not hydrogen, or Q+ is Li+, Na+, K+, % Ca++, % Mg++, % Zn++, 1/3 Al+++, or combinations thereof; (b) from 0.01 mol% to 5 mol%, preferably from 0.01 mol% to 4 mol% of cross-linking or branching units, where the cross-linking or branching units result from the incorporation of a monomer comprising at least two olefinically unsaturated double bonds; (c) from 0.01 mol% to 88.52 mol%, preferably from 0.05 mol% to 72.4 mol% of neutral repetitive structural units, preferably where at least 10% by weight, preferably at least 20% by weight of the neutral repeating structural units comprises from 0% by weight to 100% by weight of carbon content of biological origin, relative to the total mass of carbon in the neutral repeating structural unit, as measured in accordance with ASTM D6866-12, Method B; (d) from 1.98 mol% to 20 mol%, preferably from 2.5 mol% to 18 mol% of repetitive anionic structural units, wherein the repetitive anionic structural units result from the incorporation of a monomer comprising at least at least one carboxylate anion, and where the repetitive anionic structural units are different from units (a), preferably where at least 10% by weight, preferably at least 20% by weight of the repetitive anionic structural units comprise of 0% by weight to 100% by weight of carbon content of biological origin, relative to the total mass of carbon in the repeating anionic structural unit, as measured in accordance with ASTM D6866-12, Method B.

[0043] In at least one embodiment, the polymer comprises from 37 mol% to 96.4 mol%, preferably from 43 mol% to 95.3 mol% units (a), from 0.1% mol to 3 mol%, preferably 0.2 mol% to 2 mol% units (b), 0.1 mol% to 59.3 mol%, preferably 0.5% in mol to 52.8 mol% units (c), and from 3.5 mol% to 16 mol%, preferably from 4 mol% to 14 mol% units (d). In at least one embodiment, the polymer comprises units (a), (b), (c) and (d) so that their sum is at least 99 mol% by total weight of the polymer.

[0044] In at least one embodiment, the polymer comprises from 70 mol% to 94.5 mol%, units (a), from 0.35 mol% to 1.5 mol%, units (b), from 0.65 mol% to 25.65 mol% units (c), and from 4.5 mol% to 12 mol% units (d). In at least one embodiment, the polymer comprises units (a), (b), (c) and (d) so that their sum is at least 99 mol% by total weight of the polymer.

[0045] In at least one embodiment, the polymer consists of units (a), units (b), units (c) and units (d).

[0046] In at least one embodiment, the polymer has a weight average molecular weight of at least 700 g/mol, preferably 700 g/mol to 10 million g/mol.

[0047] In at least one embodiment, the polymer has ingredients derived from natural cosmetics. According to ISO 16128- 1:2016(E) a polymer is an ingredient derived from natural cosmetics if it is greater than 50% natural in origin by renewable carbon content in accordance with the analytical procedure ASTM 6866-12, Method B.

Units (a)

[0048] In at least one embodiment, the polymer comprises at least one repeating unit (a) according to formula (1) where R1 and R2 are independently selected from H, methyl or ethyl; A is a linear or branched C1-C12-alkyl group; and Q+ is H+, NH4+, Li+, Na+, K+, % Ca++, % Mg++, % Zn++, 1/3 AI+++, or combinations thereof, preferably where Q+ is Na+ or NH4+. NH4+ is preferred because it is more soluble than the preferred solvent used in polymer synthesis. Na+ is preferred because of the reduced likelihood of unwanted gases being produced during synthesis and also because of economic advantages.

[0049] In at least one embodiment, Q+ is NH4+. In at least one embodiment, Q+ is selected from the group of monoalkylammonium, dialkylammonium, trialkylammonium and/or tetraalkylammonium salts, in which the alkyl substituents of the amines may be, indu, radicals (C1 to C22)-alkyl or radicals (C2 to C10)-hydroxyalkyl.

[0050] In at least one embodiment, the polymer comprises at least one repeating unit (a) according to formula (1). In at least one embodiment, the polymer comprises two or more repeating units (a) according to formula (1), such as repeating units according to formula (1) having different Q+ counterions.

[0051] In at least one embodiment, the repeating units (a) according to formula (1) have a degree of neutralization between 0 mol% and 100 mol%. In at least one embodiment, the repeating units according to formula (1) have a degree of neutralization from 50.0 to 100 mol%, preferably from 80.0 mol% to 100 mol%, more preferably from 90. 0 to 100 mol%, even more preferably 95.0 to 100 mol%. Particular preference is given to a degree of neutralization of more than 80 mol%, more preferably more than 90 mol%, even more preferably more than 95 mol%. The degree of neutralization is important considering the molecular weight of the polymer and the yield of the polymer produced.

[0052] At least 10% by weight, preferably at least 20% by weight of the repeating units (a) according to formula (1) comprise from 28% by weight to 100% by weight of carbon content of biological origin , relative to the total mass of carbon in repeating unit (a) according to formula (1), as measured in accordance with ASTM D6866-12, Method B. In at least one embodiment, at least 25% by weight , or at least 30% by weight, or at least 35% by weight, or at least 40% by weight, or at least 45% by weight, or at least 50% by weight, or at least 55% by weight, or at least 60% by weight, or at least 65% by weight, or at least 70% by weight, or at least 75% by weight, or at least 80% by weight, or at least 85% by weight, or at least 90% by weight, or at least 95% by weight, or at least 96% by weight, or at least 97% by weight, or at least 98% by weight, or at least 99% by weight, or at least 99, 5% by weight of the repeating units according to formula (1) comprise from 28% by weight to 100% by weight of carbon content of biological origin, in relation to the total mass of carbon in the repeating unit (a) of according to formula (1), as measured in accordance with ASTM D6866-12, Method B.

[0053] In at least one embodiment, the repeating units according to formula (1) comprise from 28% by weight to 100% by weight of carbon content of biological origin, relative to the total mass of carbon in the repeating unit of according to formula (1), as measured in accordance with ASTM D6866-12, Method B. In at least one embodiment, the repeating unit (a) comprises 35% by weight, preferably 40% by weight, more preferably from 54% by weight, even more preferably from 57% by weight to 100% by weight, most preferably about 100% by weight, carbon content of biological origin, relative to the total mass of carbon in the repeating unit of according to formula (1), as measured in accordance with ASTM D6866-12, Method B.

[0054] In at least one embodiment, the repeating units according to formula (1) result from the incorporation of a monomer selected from the group consisting of acryloyldimethyltaurates, acryloyl-1,1-dimethyl-2-methyltaurates, acryloyltaurates, acryloyl-N methyltaurates, and combinations thereof. Preferably the repeating units (a) according to formula (1) result from the incorporation of acryloyldimethyltaurate.

[0055] In at least one embodiment, the polymer comprises from 55 mol% to 98 mol% of repeating units according to formula (1) where at least 30% by weight, preferably at least 50% by weight, more preferably at least 70% by weight of the repeating units (a) according to formula (1) comprise from 28% by weight to 100% by weight of carbon content of biological origin, relative to the total mass of carbon in the unit repetitive, as measured in accordance with ASTM D6866-12, Method B;

[0056] Preferably the repeating units according to formula (1) are incorporated by polymerization of a compound of formula (3), where X is a proton. More preferably the compound according to formula (3) is ACDMT.

[0056] In at least one embodiment, the ACDMT comprises from 35% by weight, preferably 40% by weight, more preferably 54% by weight, even more preferably from 57% by weight to 100% by weight, more preferably still approximately 100% by weight, carbon content of biological origin, relative to the total mass of carbon in the ACDMT, as measured in accordance with ASTM D6866-12, Method B.

[0057] The carbon content of biological origin, in relation to the total carbon mass in the repeating units (a) according to formula (1), is measured in accordance with ASTM D6866-12, Method B. More details on the analytical procedure for determining the carbon content of biological origin: the sample material presented does not undergo any pre-treatment procedure and is converted into graphite through the following procedure:

[0058] Depending on the estimated amount of carbon content, typically a few milligrams of sample material are burned in an elemental analyzer (EA). The resulting gas mixture is washed and the CO2 is automatically separated by the EA through purge and trap technology. The remaining CO2 is transferred to a customized graphitization system, converted into carbon (graphite) catalytically using H2 and an iron powder catalyst. The determination of carbon-14 in graphite is carried out at the Klaus-Tschira-Archaeometrie-Center using an accelerator mass spectrometer (AMS) of the MICADAS type (developed at ETH Zurich, Switzerland). Units (b)

[0059] The polymer comprises cross-linking or branching units (b), where the cross-linking or branching units result from the incorporation of a monomer comprising at least two olefinically unsaturated double bonds. The polymer comprises from 0.01 mol% to 5 mol%, preferably 0.01 mol% to 4 mol%, more preferably from 0.01 mol% to 2 mol% of crosslinking units or branch.

[0060] In at least one embodiment, the cross-linking or branching units comprise at least one atom of oxygen, nitrogen, and sulfur or phosphorus. In at least one embodiment, the cross-linking or branching units result from monomers with a molecular weight of less than 500 g/mol. In at least one embodiment, units (b) are bifunctional or trifunctional crosslinking agents.

[0061] In at least one embodiment, the polymer comprises two or more different cross-linking or branching units.

[0062] In at least one embodiment, the cross-linking or branching units result from the incorporation of a monomer according to formula (2): where R1 is independently selected from H, methyl or ethyl; and R2 is a linear or branched alkyl group having 1 to 6 carbon atoms, or is a linear or branched, mono- or polyunsaturated alkylene group having 2 to 6 carbon atoms, -(CH2-CH2-o)n- n is an integer from 1 to 100.

[0063] A monomer according to formula (2) has the advantage that it is possible to predict that the polymer will have a more brush-like structure. However, brush-shaped polymers have different properties compared to linear polymers. For example, depending on the different comonomer units, solubility may increase or decrease.

[0064] In at least one embodiment, the crosslinking or branching units result from the incorporation of a monomer according to formula (4) where R1 is independently selected from H, methyl or ethyl; and R2 is a linear or branched alkyl group having 1 to 6 carbon atoms, or is a linear or branched, monoor polyunsaturated alkylene group having 2 to 6 carbon atoms; D, E, and F are independently methylene-oxy(-CH2O), ethylene-oxy(-CH2-CH2-O-), propylene-oxy(-CH(CH3)-CH2-O-), an al group - linear or branched kylene having 1 to 6 carbon atoms, a linear or branched alkyenylene group with one or multiple unsaturations having 2 to 6 carbon atoms, a linear monohydroxyalkylene group having 2 to 6 carbon atoms or a di- linear or branched hydroxyalkylene having 3 to 6 carbon atoms; and o, p, and q each independently are an integer from 1 to 50.

[0063] A monomer according to formula (4) has the advantage that it is possible to predict that the polymer will be highly branched.

[0064] In at least one embodiment, the cross-linking or branching units (b) result from the incorporation of a monomer selected from the group consisting of methylenebisacrylamide; methylenebismethacrylamide; esters of unsaturated monocarboxylic and polycarboxylic acids with polyols, preferably diacrylates and triacrylates and -methacrylates (for example, glycerol propoxylate triacrylate [GPTA]), more preferably butanediol and ethylene glycol diacrylate and polyethylene glycol diacrylate and -methacrylate , trimethylolpropane triacrylate (TMPTA) and trimethylolpropane trimethacrylate (TMPTMA); allylic compounds, preferably allyl (meth) acrylate, triallyl cyanurate, diallyl maleate, polyallyl esters, tetraallyloxyethane, triallylamine, tetraallylethylenediamine; phosphoric acid allyl esters; and/or vinylphosphonic acid derivatives. The choice of cross-linking or branching units is important in view of the flexibility of cross-links between the main chains of the polymer, which affects the final performance of the polymer.

[0065] In at least one embodiment, the crosslinking or branching units (b) result from the incorporation of a crosslinker selected from the group consisting of trimethylolpropane triacrylate (TMPTA) and/or glycerol propoxylate triacrylate (GPTA). Particularly preferred as crosslinkers for the polymers of the invention are glycerol propoxylate triacrylate (GPTA), trimethylolpropane triacrylate (TMP-TA), pentaerythritol diacrylate monostearate (PEAS), hexanediol diacrylate (HDDA), polyethylene glycol diacrylate (PEG-DA). and hexanediol dimethacrylate (HDDMA). Especially preferred are glycerol propoxylate triacrylate (GPTA) and trimethylolpropane triacrylate (TMPTA).

Units (c)

[0066] In at least one embodiment, the polymer has at least one neutral repetitive structural unit (c).

[0067] In at least one embodiment, the polymer comprises (c) from 0.99 mol% to 59.99 mol%, preferably from 1.99 mol% to 44.99 mol% of neutral structural units repetitive (c); wherein the neutral repeating units comprise up to 100% by weight of carbon content of biological origin, relative to the total mass of carbon in the repeating unit, as measured in accordance with ASTM D6866-12, Method B.

[0068] In at least one embodiment, the polymer comprising at least one neutral repeating structural unit is selected from the group consisting of N-vinylformamide, N-vinylacetamide, N-methyl-N-vinylformamide, N-methyl-N-vinylacetamide, N-vinyl-2-pyrrolidone, N-vinylcaprolactam, vinylacetate, N,N-dimethylacrylamide, N-isopropylacrylamide, acrylamide, methylacrylate, behenylpolyethoxy-(25)-methacrylate, laurylpolyethoxy-(7)-methacrylate, cetylpolyethoxy-(10)- methacrylate, stearylpolyethoxy-(8)-methacrylate, methoxypolyethoxy-(12)-methacrylate, and combinations thereof. Units (d)

[0069] In at least one embodiment, the polymer comprises at least one repetitive anionic structural unit (d).

[0070] In at least one embodiment, the polymer comprises from 1.98 mol% to 20 mol%, preferably from 2.5 mol% to 18 mol% of repetitive anionic structural units, where the anionic structural units repetitive anionic structural units result from incorporation of a monomer comprising at least one carboxylate anion, and where the repetitive anionic structural units (d) are different from units (a) and where the repetitive anionic structural units comprise up to 100% by weight of carbon content of biological origin, relative to the total mass of carbon in the repeating unit, as measured in accordance with ASTM D6866-12, Method B.

[0071] In at least one embodiment, the repetitive anionic structural unit results from the incorporation of monomers according to formula (A): where R1 and R3 are H, methyl or ethyl, or C(O)O-Z+; X, Y are selected from a covalent bond, O, CH2, C(O)O, OC(O), C(O)NR3 or NR3C(O); M are selected from a covalent bond, - [C(O)O-CH2-CH2]n-, a linear or branched alkylene group with 1 to 6 carbon atoms, a linear or branched mono- or polyunsaturated alkenylene group with 2 to 6 carbon atoms, a linear monohydroxyalkylene group having 2 to 6 carbon atoms or a linear or branched dihydroxyalkylene group having 3 to 6 carbon atoms; n is an integer from 1 to 5; and Z+ is H+, NH4+, an organic ammonium ion [HNR5R6R7]+ where R5, R6 and R7 are independently hydrogen, a linear or branched alkyl group with 1 to 22 carbon atoms, a linear mono- or polyunsaturated alkenyl group or branched having 2 to 22 carbon atoms, a C6 to C22 alkylamidopropyl group, a linear monohydroxyalkyl group having 2 to 10 carbon atoms, or a linear or branched dihydroxyalkyl group having 3 to 10 carbon atoms, and where at least least one of R5, R6 and R7 is not hydrogen, or Z+ is Li+, Na+, K+, % Ca++, % Mg++, % Zn++, 1/3 AI+++, or combinations thereof. In at least one embodiment, Z+ is H+, NH4+, Li+, Na+, K+, % Ca++, % Mg++, % Zn++, or 1/3 Al+++, preferably H+, NH4+, Li+, Na+ or K+.

[0072] In at least one embodiment, the polymer comprises at least one repetitive anionic structural unit selected from the group consisting of acrylic acid or acrylate, methacrylic acid or methacrylate, itaconic acid or itaconate, carboxyethyl acrylic acid or carboxyethyl acrylate, carboxyethyl acrylic acid oligomers or oligomers of carboxyethyl acrylate, 2-propylacrylic acid or 2-propylacrylate, 2-ethylacrylic acid or 2-ethyl acrylate, and their respective alkali metal or alkaline earth metal salts.

[0073] In at least one embodiment, the polymer comprises at least one repetitive anionic structural unit selected from the group consisting of acrylic acid or acrylate, methacrylic acid or methacrylate, itaconic acid or itaconate, carboxyethyl acrylic acid or carboxyethyl acrylate, carboxyethyl acrylic acid oligomers or carboxyethyl acrylate oligomers, and their respective alkali metal or alkaline earth metal salts. These repetitive anionic structural units are preferred because they can be easily synthesized from biological sources.

Optional units (e)

[0074] In at least one embodiment, the polymer comprises at least one optional unit. In at least one embodiment, the optional unit results from the incorporation of a monomer selected from the group consisting of unsaturated carboxylic acids and their anhydrides and salts, and also their esters with aliphatic, olefinic, cycloaliphatic, arylaliphatic or aromatic alcohols having a number of carbons from 1 to 22. In at least one embodiment, the optional unit (e) results from the incorporation of at least one monomer selected from the group consisting of functionalized (meth)acrylic acid esters, acrylic acid amides or methacrylic, polyglycol esters of acrylic or methacrylic acid, amides of polyglycol acrylic or methacrylic acid, esters of dipropylene glycolacrylic or methacrylic acid, amides of dipropylene glycolacrylic or methacrylic acid, acrylates or methacrylates of ethoxylated fatty alcohols, acrylates of alcohols propoxylated fatty acids or linear or cyclic N-vinylamides or N-methylvinyl amides.

[0075] In at least one embodiment, the optional unit results from the incorporation of monomers according to formula (A): where: X, Y are selected from a covalent bond, O, CH2, C(O)O, OC(O), C(O)NR3 or NR3C(O); R1 and R3 are H, methyl or ethyl, or C(O)O-Z+; M is selected from a covalent bond, -[C(O)O- CH2-CH2]n-, a linear or branched alkylene group with 1 to 6 carbon atoms, a linear or branched mono- or polyunsaturated alkenylene group with 2 to 6 carbon atoms, a linear monohydroxyalkylene group having 2 to 6 carbon atoms or a linear or branched dihydroxyalkylene group having 3 to 6 carbon atoms; n is an integer from 1 - 5, and Z+ is H+, NH4+, an organic ammonium ion [HNR5R6R7]+ where R5, R6 and R7 are independently hydrogen, a linear or branched alkyl group with 1 to 22 carbon atoms, a linear or branched mono- or polyunsaturated alkenyl group having 2 to 22 carbon atoms, a C6 to C22 alkylamidopropyl group, a linear monohydroxyalkyl group having 2 to 10 carbon atoms, or a linear or branched dihydroxyalkyl group having 3 to 10 carbon atoms, and where at least one of R5, R6 and R7 is not hydrogen, or Z+ is Li+, Na+, K+, % Ca++, % Mg++, % Zn++, 1/3 AI+++, or combinations thereof. In at least one embodiment, Z+ is H+, NH4+, Li+, Na+, K+, % Ca++, % Mg++, % Zn++, or 1/3 Al+++, preferably H+, NH4+, Li+, Na+ or K+.

[0076] In at least one embodiment, the optional unit results from the incorporation of a monomer according to formula (A) where X is a covalent bond or is CH2. In at least one embodiment, the optional unit results from the incorporation of a monomer according to formula (A) where Y is a covalent bond, CH2, C(O)O, or C(O)NR3. In at least one embodiment, the optional unit results from the incorporation of a monomer according to formula (A) where M is a covalent bond, -[C(O)O-CH2-CH2]n-, an alkylene group linear or branched with 1 to 6 carbon atoms. In at least one embodiment, the optional unit results from the incorporation of a monomer according to formula (A) where R1 is H, methyl or ethyl; X is a covalent bond or is CH2; Y is a covalent bond, CH2, C(O)O, or C(O)NR3; R3 is H, methyl or ethyl; M is a covalent bond, -[C(O)O-CH2-CH2]n-, a linear or branched alkylene group with 1 to 6 carbon atoms; Z+ is H+, NH4+, Li+, Na+, K+, % Ca++, % Mg++, % Zn++, or 1/3 AI+++, or combinations thereof.

[0077] In at least one embodiment, the optional unit results from the incorporation of a monomer selected from the group consisting of N-vinylformamide, N-vinylacetamide, N-methyl-N-vinylformamide, N-methyl-N-vinylacetamide, N- vinyl-2-pyrrolidone (NVP), N-vinylcaprolactam, vinylacetate, methylvinyl ether, ethylvinyl ether, methylallyl ether, ethylmethalyl ether, stirol, acetoxystyrol, methylmetalyl ether, ethylalyl ether, tert-butylacrylamide, N,N-diethylacrylamide, N, N-dimethylacrylamide, N,N-dimethylmethacrylamide, N,N-dipropylacrylamide, N-isopropylacrylamide, N-propylacrylamide, acrylamide, methacrylamide, methylacrylate, methimethylacrylate, tert-butylacrylate, tert-butylmethacrylate, n-butylacrylate, n-butylmethacrylate, lauryl acrylate, lauryl methacrylate, behenyl acrylate, behenyl methacrylate, cetyl acrylate, cetyl methacrylate, stearyl acrylate, stearyl methacrylate, tridecyl acrylate, tridecyl methacrylate, polyethoxy-(5)-methacrylate, polyethoxy-(5)-acrylate, polyethoxy-(10)-methacrylate, polyethoxy-(10)-acrylate, behenylpolyethoxy-(7)-methacrylate, behenylpolyethoxy-(7)-acrylate, behenylpolyethoxy-(8)-methacrylate, behenylpolyethoxy-(8)-acrylate, behenylpolyethoxy-(12)-methacrylate, behenylpolyethoxy-(12)-acrylate, behenylpolyethoxy-(16)-methacrylate, behenylpolyethoxy-(16)-acrylate, behenylpolyethoxy-(25)-methacrylate, behenylpolyethoxy-(25)-acrylate, laurylpolyethoxy-(7)-methacrylate, laurylpolyethoxy-(7)-acrylate, laurylpolyethoxy-(8)-methacrylate, laurylpolyethoxy-(8)-acrylate, laurylpolyethoxy-(12)-methacrylate, laurylpolyethoxy-(12)-acrylate, laurylpolyethoxy-(16)-methacrylate, laurylpolyethoxy-(16)-methacrylate xi-(16)-acrylate, laurylpolyethoxy-(22)-methacrylate, laurylpolyethoxy-(22)-acrylate, laurylpolyethoxy-(23)-methacrylate, laurylpolyethoxy-(23)-acrylate, cetylpolyethoxy-(2)-methacrylate, cetylpolyethoxy-(2)-acrylate, cetylpolyethoxy-(7)-methacrylate, cetylpolyethoxy-(7)-acrylate, cetylpolyethoxy-(10)-methacrylate, cetylpolyethoxy-(10)-acrylate, cetylpolyethoxy-(12)-methacrylate, cetylpolyethoxy-(12)-acrylate cetylpolyethoxy-(16)-methacrylate, cetylpolyethoxy-(16)-acrylate cetylpolyethoxy-(20)-methacrylate, cetylpolyethoxy-(20)-acrylate, cetylpolyethoxy-(25)-methacrylate, cetylpolyethoxy-(25) )-acrylate, cetylpolyethoxy-(25)-methacrylate, cetylpolyethoxy-(25)-acrylate, stearylpolyethoxy-(7)-methacrylate, stearylpolyethoxy-(7)-acrylate, stearylpolyethoxy-(8)-methacrylate, stearylpolyethoxy-(8 )-acrylate, stearylpolyethoxy-(12)-methacrylate, stearylpolyethoxy-(12)-acrylate, stearylpolyethoxy-(16)-methacrylate, stearylpolyethoxy-(16)-acrylate, stearylpolyethoxy-(22)-methacrylate, stearylpolyethoxy-(22)- acrylate, stearylpolyethoxy-(23)-methacrylate, stearylpolyethoxy-(23)-acrylate, stearylpolyethoxy-(25)-methacrylate, stearylpolyethoxy-(25)-acrylate, tridecylpolyethoxy-(7)-methacrylate, tridecylpolyethoxy-(7 )-acrylate, methacrylate, tridecylpolyethoxy-(10)-acrylate, methacrylate, tridecylpolyethoxy-(12)-acrylate, methacrylate, tridecylpolyethoxy-(16)-acrylate, methacrylate, tridecylpolyethoxy-(22)-acrylate, methacrylate, tridecylpolyethoxy-(23 )-acrylate, methacrylate, tridecylpolyethoxy-(25)-acrylate, methacrylate, methoxy-polyethoxy-(7)-acrylate, methacrylate, methoxypolyethoxy-(12)-acrylate, methacrylate, methoxypolyethoxy-(16)-acrylate, methacrylate, methoxy- polyethoxy-(25)-acrylate, acrylic acid, ammonium acrylate, sodium acrylate, potassium acrylate, lithium acrylate, zinc acrylate, calcium acrylate, magnesium acrylate, zirconium acrylate, methacrylic acid, ammonium methacrylate, sodium methacrylate, potassium methacrylate, lithium methacrylate, calcium methacrylate, magnesium methacrylate, zirconium methacrylate, zinc methacrylate, 2-carboxyethyl acrylate, ammonium 2-carboxyethyl acrylate, sodium 2-carboxyethyl acrylate, sodium 2-carboxyethyl acrylate potassium, lithium 2-carboxyethyl acrylate, zinc 2-carboxyethyl acrylate, calcium 2-carboxyethyl acrylate, magnesium 2-carboxyethyl acrylate, zirconium 2-carboxyethyl acrylate, 2-carboxyethyl acrylate oligomer, ammonium 2-carboxyethyl acrylate oligomers, 2-carboxyethyl acrylate oligomers -sodium carboxyethylacrylate, potassium 2-carboxyethyl acrylate oligomers, lithium 2-carboxyethyl acrylate oligomers, zinc 2-carboxyethyl acrylate oligomers, calcium 2-carboxyethyl acrylate oligomers, magnesium 2-carboxyethyl acrylate oligomers, zirconium 2-carboxyethyl acrylate oligomers , itaconic acid, sodium itaconate, potassium itaconate, lithium itaconate, calcium itaconate, magnesium itaconate, zirconium itaconate, zinc itaconate, 2-ethylacrylic acid, ammonium 2-ethylacrylate, 2-ethylacrylate sodium, potassium 2-ethylacrylate, lithium 2-ethylacrylate, calcium 2-ethylacrylate, magnesium 2-ethylacrylate, zirconium 2-ethylacrylate, potassium 2-ethylacrylate, 2-propylacrylic acid, ammonium 2-propylacrylate , sodium 2-propylacrylate, potassium 2-propylacrylate, lithium 2-propylacrylate, calcium 2-propylacrylate, magnesium 2-propylacrylate, magnesium 2-propylacrylate, zirconium 2-propylacrylate, zinc 2-propylacrylate, glycerin propoxylate triacrylate (GPTA), trimethylolpropane triacrylate (TMPTA), pentaerythritoldiacrylate monostearate (PEAS), polyethylene glycol diacrylate, hexanediol diacrylate (HDDA), hexanediol dimethacrylate (HDDMA), and combinations thereof.

[0078] In a preferred embodiment, the optional unit results from the incorporation of a monomer selected from the group consisting of glycerin propoxylate triacrylate (GPTA) and trimethylolpropantriacrylate (TMPTA).

[0079] In a preferred embodiment, the optional unit results from the incorporation of a monomer selected from the group consisting of N-vinylformamide, N-vinylacetamide, N-methyl-N-vinylacetamide, N-vinyl-2-pyrrolidone (NVP), N,N-diethylacrylamide, acrylamide, methacrylamide, methylacrylate, methylmethylacrylate, tert-butylacrylate, acrylic acid, methacrylic acid, 2-carboxyethyl acrylate, 2-carboxyethyl acrylate oligomers, itaconic acid glycerin propoxylate triacrylate (GPTA), trimethylolpropane triacrylate (TMPTA) , pentaerythritol diacrylate monostearate (PEAS) and polyethylene glycol diacrylate.

[0080] In at least one embodiment, the optional unit results from the incorporation of a monomer selected from the group consisting of acrylic acid, methacrylic acid, styrenesulfonic acid, maleic acid, fumaric acid, crotonic acid, itaconic acid, and senecic acid. In at least one embodiment, the optional unit results from monomers selected from the group consisting of open-chain N-vinyl amides, preferably N-vinylformamide (VIFA), N-vinylmethylformamide, N-vinylmethylacetamide (VIMA) and N-vinylacetamides; Cyclic N-vinyl amides (N-vinyl lactams) with a ring size of 3 to 9, preferably N-vinylpyrrolidones (NVP) and N-vinylcaprolactam; acrylic and methacrylic acid amides, preferably acrylamide, methacrylamide, N,N-dimethylacrylamide, N,N-diethylacrylamide, and N,N-diisopropylacrylamide; alkoxylated acrylamides and methacrylamides, preferably hydroxyethyl methacrylate, hydroxymethyl methacrylamide; hydroxyethylmethacryl amide, hydroxypropylmethacrylamide, and mono[2-(methacryloyloxy)ethyl]succinate; N,N-dimethylaminomethacrylate; diethylaminomethylmethacrylate; acrylamido- and methacrylamidoglycolic acid; 2- and 4- vinylpyridine; vinyl acetate; glycidyl methacrylate; styrene; acrylonitrile; vinyl chloride; stearyl acrylate; lauryl methacrylate; vinylidene chloride; tetrafluoroethylene; and combinations thereof. Exemplary modalities of the first aspect

[0081] A preferred embodiment of the first aspect refers to a polymer consisting of: (a) from 9.49 mol% to 98 mol%, preferably from 27.5 mol% to 97.4 mol% mol of repeating units according to formula (1) wherein at least 10% by weight, preferably at least 20% by weight of the repeating units according to formula (1) comprise from 28% by weight to 100% by weight of carbon content of biological origin, in relation to the total mass of carbon in the repeating unit according to formula (1), as measured in accordance with ASTM D6866-12, Method B; where: R1 and R2 are independently selected from H, methyl or ethyl; A is a linear or branched C1-C12-alkyl group; and Q+ is H+, NH4+, organic ammonium ions [NHR5R6R7]+ where R5, R6, and R7 independently of each other may be hydrogen, a linear or branched alkyl group having 1 to 22 carbon atoms, a linear or branched alkenyl group , with one or multiple unsaturations having 2 to 22 carbon atoms, a C6-C22 alkylamidopropyl group, a linear monohydroxyalkyl group having 2 to carbon atoms or a linear or branched dihydroxyalkyl group having 3 to carbon atoms, and where at least one of the radicals R5, R6, and R7 is not hydrogen, or Q+ is Li+, Na+, K+, ^Ca++, ^Mg++, ^Zn++, 1/3 AI+++, or combinations thereof; (b) from 0.01 mol% to 5 mol%, preferably from 0.01 mol% to 4 mol% of cross-linking or branching units, where the cross-linking or branching units result from the incorporation of a monomer comprising at least two olefinically unsaturated double bonds; (c) from 0.01 mol% to 88.52 mol%, preferably from 0.05 mol% to 72.4 mol% of neutral repetitive structural units, preferably where at least 10% by weight, preferably at least 20% by weight of the neutral repeating structural units comprises from 0% by weight to 100% by weight of carbon content of biological origin, relative to the total mass of carbon in the neutral repeating structural unit, as measured in accordance with ASTM D6866-12, Method B; (d) from 1.98 mol% to 20 mol%, preferably from 2.5 mol% to 18 mol% of repetitive anionic structural units, wherein the repetitive anionic structural units result from the incorporation of a monomer comprising at least at least one carboxylate anion, and where the repetitive anionic structural units are different from units (a), preferably where at least 10% by weight, preferably at least 20% by weight of the repetitive anionic structural units comprise of 0% by weight to 100% by weight of carbon content of biological origin, relative to the total mass of carbon in the repeating anionic structural unit, as measured in accordance with ASTM D6866-12, Method B.

[0082] A preferred embodiment of the first aspect refers to a polymer comprising: (a) from 9.49 mol% to 98 mol%, preferably from 27.5 mol% to 97.4 mol% of a repeating structural unit resulting from the incorporation of ACDMT, wherein the ACDMT comprises from 35% by weight, preferably from 40% by weight, more preferably from 54% by weight, even more preferably from 57% by weight to 100% by weight, more preferably about 100% by weight of carbon content of biological origin, relative to the total mass of carbon in ACDMT, as measured in accordance with ASTM D6866-12, Method B.

SECOND ASPECT

[0083] A second aspect relates to a process for obtaining a polymer by polymerization of: (a) at least one monomer according to formula (10) comprising from 28% by weight to 100% by weight of content of carbon of biological origin, in relation to the total mass of carbon in the monomer according to formula (10), as measured in accordance with ASTM D6866-12, Method B; (b) at least one cross-linking or branching monomer; (c) at least one neutral monomer; and (d) at least one anionic monomer; wherein the cross-linking or branching monomer has at least two olefinically unsaturated double bonds; and where formula (10) is: where: R1 and R2 are independently selected from H, methyl or ethyl; A is a linear or branched C1-C12-alkyl group; and Q+ is H+, NH4+, organic ammonium ions [NHR5R6R7]+ where R5, R6, and R7 independently of each other may be hydrogen, a linear or branched alkyl group having 1 to 22 carbon atoms, a linear alkenyl group or branched, with one or multiple unsaturations having 2 to 22 carbon atoms, a C6-C22 alkylamidopropyl group, a linear monohydroxyalkyl group having 2 to carbon atoms or a linear or branched dihydroxyalkyl group having 3 to carbon atoms , and where at least one of the radicals R5, R6, and R7 is not hydrogen, or Q+ is Li+, Na+, K+, % Ca++, % Mg++, % Zn++, 1/3 AI+++, or combinations thereof.

[0084] In at least one embodiment, the process for obtaining a polymer by polymerizing: (a) at least one monomer according to formula (10) comprising from 28% by weight to 100% by weight of carbon of biological origin, in relation to the total mass of carbon in the monomer according to formula (10), as measured in accordance with ASTM D6866-12, Method B; (b) at least one cross-linking or branching monomer; (c) at least one neutral monomer; (d) at least one anionic monomer; and (e) at least one optional monomer; wherein the cross-linking or branching monomer has at least two olefinically unsaturated double bonds.

[0085] In at least one embodiment, the polymer is in accordance with the first aspect. Monomer (a)

[0086] In at least one embodiment, at least 25% by weight, or at least 30% by weight, or at least 35% by weight, or at least 40% by weight, or at least 45% by weight, or at least 50% by weight, or at least 55% by weight, or at least 60% by weight, or at least 65% by weight, or at least 70% by weight, or at least 75% by weight, or at least 80% by weight, or at least 85% by weight, or at least 90% by weight, or at least 95% by weight, or at least 96% by weight, or at least 97% by weight, or at least 98% by weight, or at least 99% by weight, or at least 99.5% by weight of the monomer according to formula (10) comprises from 28% by weight to 100% by weight of carbon content of biological origin, in relative to the total mass of carbon in the repeating unit according to formula (1), as measured in accordance with ASTM D6866-12, Method B. In at least one embodiment, the monomers according to formula (10) comprise of 35% by weight, preferably 40% by weight, more preferably about 54% by weight, even more preferably from 57% by weight to 100% by weight, most preferably still about 100% by weight carbon content of biological origin, in relation to the total mass of carbon in the repeating unit (a) according to formula (1), as measured in accordance with ASTM D6866-12, Method B.

[0087] In at least one embodiment, the monomer according to formula (10) is a compound according to formula (3); where X is a proton.

[0088] In at least one embodiment, the monomer according to formula (10) is AcDMT.

[0089] In at least one embodiment, the AcDMT comprises 35% by weight, preferably 40% by weight, more preferably 54% by weight, even more preferably from 57% by weight to 100% by weight, most preferably still about of 100% by weight, carbon content of biological origin, relative to the total mass of carbon in the AcDMT, as measured in accordance with ASTM D6866-12, Method B.

Monomer (b)

[0090] In at least one embodiment, the polymer comprises from 0.01 mol% to 10 mol%, preferably 0.01 mol% to 5 mol%, more preferably from 0.01 mol% to 3 mol% % of cross-linking or branching units.

[0091] In at least one embodiment, the cross-linking or branching units comprise at least one oxygen, nitrogen, sulfur or phosphorus atom. In at least one embodiment, the cross-linking or branching units result from monomers with a molecular weight of less than 500 g/mol. In at least one embodiment, the crosslinking or branching units are bifunctional or trifunctional crosslinking agents.

[0092] In at least one embodiment, the polymer comprises two or more different cross-linking or branching units.

[0093] In at least one embodiment, the cross-linking or branching monomer is according to formula (2): where R1 is independently selected from H, methyl or ethyl; and R2 is a linear or branched alkyl group having 1 to 6 carbon atoms, or is a linear or branched, monoor polyunsaturated alkylene group having 2 to 6 carbon atoms, -(cH2-cH2-o)n-n is a real number between 1 and 100.

[0094] A monomer according to formula (2) has the advantage that it is possible to predict that the polymer will have a more brush-like structure. However, brush-shaped polymers have different properties compared to linear polymers. For example, depending on the different comonomer units, solubility may increase or decrease.

[0095] In at least one embodiment, the cross-linking or branching monomer is according to formula (40) where R1 is independently selected from H, methyl or ethyl; and R2 is a linear or branched alkyl group having 1 to 6 carbon atoms, or is a linear or branched, mono- or polyunsaturated alkylene group having 2 to 6 carbon atoms; D, E, and F are independently methylene-oxy(-CH2O), ethylene-oxy(-CH2-CH2-O-), propylene-oxy(-CH(CH3)-CH2-O-), a linear alkylene group, or branched having 1 to 6 carbon atoms, a linear or branched alkyenylene group with one or multiple unsaturations having 2 to 6 carbon atoms, a linear monohydroxyalkylene group having 2 to 6 carbon atoms or a linear dihydroxyalkylene group or branched having 3 to 6 carbon atoms; and o, p, and q are independently an integer from 1 to 50.

[0096] A monomer according to formula (40) has the advantage that it is possible to predict that the polymer will be highly branched.

[0097] In at least one embodiment, the cross-linking or branching monomer is selected from the group consisting of methylenebisacrylamide; methylenebismethacrylamide; esters of unsaturated monocarboxylic and polycarboxylic acids with polyols, preferably diacrylates and triacrylates and -methacrylates (e.g. glycerol propoxylate triacrylate [GPTA]), more preferably butanediol and ethylene glycol diacrylate and polyethylene glycol diacrylate and -methacrylate, trimethylolpropane triacrylate (TMPTA) and trimethylolpropane trimethacrylate (TMPTMA); allylic compounds, preferably allyl (meth)acrylate, triallyl cyanurate, diallyl maleate, polyallyl esters, tetraallyloxyethane, triallylamine, tetraallylethylenediamine; phosphoric acid allyl esters; and/or vinylphosphonic acid derivatives. The choice of cross-linking or branching monomer is important in view of the flexibility of the cross-links between the polymer backbones, which affects the final performance of the polymer.

[0098] In at least one embodiment, the cross-linking or branching monomer is selected from trimethylolpropane triacrylate (TMPTA) and/or glycerol propoxylate triacrylate (GPTA).

[0099] Particularly preferred as crosslinking or crosslinking monomer for the polymers of the invention are glycerol propoxylate triacrylate (GPTA), trimethylolpropane triacrylate (TMPTA), pentaerythritol diacrylate monostearate (PEAS), hexanediol diacrylate (HDDA), polyethylene glycol diacrylate (PEG-DA) and hexanediol dimethacrylate (HDDMA). Especially preferred are glycerol propoxylate triacrylate (GPTA) and trimethylolpropane triacrylate (TMPTA).

Monomer (c)

[00100] In at least one embodiment, the polymer comprises at least one neutral repeating structural unit.

[00101] In at least one embodiment, the polymer comprises (c) from 0.99 mol% to 59.99 mol%, preferably from 1.99 mol% to 44.99 mol% of neutral structural units repetitive; wherein the neutral repeating units comprise up to 100% by weight of carbon content of biological origin, relative to the total mass of carbon in the repeating unit, as measured in accordance with ASTM D6866-12, Method B. In at least one embodiment , at least 25% by weight, or at least 30% by weight, or at least 35% by weight, or at least 40% by weight, or at least 45% by weight, or at least 50% by weight, or at least at least 55% by weight, or at least 60% by weight, or at least 65% by weight, or at least 70% by weight, or at least 75% by weight, or at least 80% by weight, or at least 85 % by weight, or at least 90% by weight, or at least 95% by weight, or at least 96% by weight, or at least 97% by weight, or at least 98% by weight, or at least 99% by weight weight, or at least 99.5% by weight of the monomers (c) comprise from 28% by weight to 100% by weight of carbon content of biological origin, relative to the total mass of carbon in the repeating unit according to the formula (1), as measured in accordance with ASTM D6866-12, Method B.

[00102] In at least one embodiment, the neutral monomer is selected from the group consisting of N-vinylformamide, N-vinylacetamide, N-methyl-N-vinylformamide, N-methyl-N-vinylacetamide, N-vinyl-2-pyrrolidone , N-vinylcaprolactam, vinylacetate, N,N-dimethylacrylamide, N-isopropylacrylamide, acrylamide, methylacrylate, behenylpolyethoxy-(25)-methacrylate, laurylpolyethoxy-(7)-methacrylate, cetylpolyethoxy-(10)-methacrylate, stearylpolyethoxy-( 8)-methacrylate, methoxypolyethoxy-(12)-methacrylate, and combinations thereof.

Monomer (d)

[00103] In at least one embodiment, the polymer comprises at least one repetitive anionic structural unit.

[00104] In at least one embodiment, the polymer comprises from 1.98 mol% to 20 mol%, preferably from 2.5 mol% to 18 mol% of repetitive anionic structural units, where the anionic structural units repetitive anionic structural units result from the incorporation of a monomer comprising at least one carboxylate anion, and where the repetitive anionic structural units are different from units (a) and where the repetitive anionic structural units comprise up to 100% by weight of the original carbon content biological, relative to the total mass of carbon in the repeating unit, as measured in accordance with ASTM D6866-12, Method B. In at least one embodiment, at least 25% by weight, or at least 30% by weight, or at least 35% by weight, or at least 40% by weight, or at least 45% by weight, or at least 50% by weight, or at least 55% by weight, or at least 60% by weight, or at least 65% by weight, or at least 70% by weight, or at least 75% by weight, or at least 80% by weight, or at least 85% by weight, or at least 90% by weight, or at least 95% by weight, or at least 96% by weight, or at least 97% by weight, or at least 98% by weight, or at least 99% by weight, or at least 99.5% by weight of the monomers (d) comprise from 28% by weight to 100% by weight of carbon content of biological origin, relative to the total mass of carbon in the repeating unit according to formula (1), as measured in accordance with ASTM D6866-12, Method B.

[00105] In at least one embodiment, the anionic monomer (d) is according to formula (A): where R1 and R3 are H, methyl or ethyl, or C(O)O-Z+; X, Y are selected from a covalent bond, O, CH2, C(O)O, OC(O), C(O)NR3 or NR3C(O); M are selected from a covalent bond, - [C(O)O-CH2-CH2]n-, a linear or branched alkylene group with 1 to 6 carbon atoms, a linear or branched mono- or polyunsaturated alkenylene group with 2 to 6 carbon atoms, a linear monohydroxyalkylene group having 2 to 6 carbon atoms or a linear or branched dihydroxyalkylene group having 3 to 6 carbon atoms; n is an integer from 1 - 5 and Z+ is H+, NH4+, an organic ammonium ion [HNR5R6R7]+ where R5, R6 and R7 are independently hydrogen, a linear or branched alkyl group with 1 to 22 carbon atoms, a linear or branched mono- or polyunsaturated alkenyl group having 2 to 22 carbon atoms, a C6 to C22 alkyl amidopropyl group, a linear monohydroxyalkyl group having 2 to 10 carbon atoms or a linear or branched dihydroxyalkyl group having 3 to 10 carbon atoms, and where at least one of R5, R6 and R7 is not hydrogen, or Z+ is Li+, Na+, K+, % Ca++, % Mg++, % Zn++, 1/3 AI+++, or combinations thereof. In at least one embodiment, the Z+ is H+, NH4+, Li+, Na+, K+, % Ca++, % Mg++, % Zn++, or 1/3 Al+++, preferably H+, NH4+, Li+, Na+ or K+.

[00107] In at least one embodiment, the anionic monomer is selected from the group consisting of acrylic acid or acrylate, methacrylic acid or methacrylate, itaconic acid or itaconate, carboxyethyl acrylic acid or carboxyethyl acrylate, carboxyethyl acrylic acid oligomers or carboxyethyl acrylate oligomers , 2-propylacrylic acid or 2-propylacrylate, 2-ethylacrylic acid or 2-ethylacrylate, and their respective alkali metal or alkaline earth metal salts.

[00108] In at least one embodiment, the anionic monomer is selected from the group consisting of acrylic acid or acrylate, methacrylic acid or methacrylate, itaconic acid or itaconate, carboxyethyl acrylic acid or carboxyethyl acrylate, carboxyethyl acrylic acid oligomers or carboxyethyl acrylate oligomers , and their respective alkali metal or alkaline earth metal salts. These anionic monomers are preferred because they can be easily synthesized from biological sources.

Optional monomer (e)

[00109] In at least one embodiment, the polymer comprises at least one optional unit. In at least one embodiment, the optional monomer is selected from the group consisting of unsaturated carboxylic acids and their anhydrides and salts, and also their esters with aliphatic, olefinic, cycloaliphatic, arylaliphatic or aromatic alcohols with a carbon number of 1 to 22. In at least one embodiment, the optional monomer is selected from the group consisting of functionalized (meth)acrylic acid esters, acrylic or methacrylic acid amides, acrylic or methacrylic polyglycol acid esters, acrylic or methacrylic polyglycol acid amides, esters of dipropylene glycolacrylic or methacrylic acid, amides of dipropylene glycolacrylic or methacrylic acid, acrylates or methacrylates of ethoxylated fatty alcohols, acrylates of propoxylated fatty alcohols or linear or cyclic N-vinylamides or N-methylvinyl amides.

[00110] In at least one embodiment, the optional monomer is according to formula (A): where: X, Y are selected from a covalent bond, O, CH2, C(O)O, OC(O), C(O)NR3 or NR3C(O); R1 and R3 are H, methyl or ethyl, or C(O)O-Z+; M is selected from a covalent bond, -[C(O)O- CH2-CH2]n-, a linear or branched alkylene group with 1 to 6 carbon atoms, a linear or branched mono- or polyunsaturated alkenylene group with 2 to 6 carbon atoms, a linear monohydroxyalkylene group having 2 to 6 carbon atoms or a linear or branched dihydroxyalkylene group having 3 to 6 carbon atoms; n is an integer from 1 - 5, and Z+ is H+, NH4+, an organic ammonium ion [HNR5R6R7]+ where R5, R6 and R7 are independently hydrogen, a linear or branched alkyl group with 1 to 22 carbon atoms, a linear or branched mono- or polyunsaturated alkenyl group having 2 to 22 carbon atoms, a C6 to C22 alkylamidopropyl group, a linear monohydroxyalkyl group having 2 to 10 carbon atoms, or a linear or branched dihydroxyalkyl group having 3 to 10 carbon atoms, and where at least one of R5, R6 and R7 is not hydrogen, or Z+ is Li+, Na+, K+, % Ca++, % Mg++, % Zn++, 1/3 AI+++, or combinations thereof. In at least one embodiment, Z+ is H+, NH4+, Li+, Na+, K+, % Ca++, % Mg++, % Zn++, or 1/3 Al+++, preferably H+, NH4+, Li+, Na+ or K+.

[00111] In at least one embodiment, the optional monomer is according to formula (A) where X is a covalent bond or is CH2. In at least one embodiment, the optional monomer is according to formula (A) where Y is a covalent bond, CH2, C(O)O, or C(O)NR3. In at least one embodiment, the optional monomer is according to formula (A) where M is a covalent bond, -[C(O)O-CH2-CH2]n-, a linear or branched alkylene group with 1 to 6 carbon atoms. In at least one embodiment, the optional monomer is according to formula (A) where R1 is H, methyl or ethyl; X is a covalent bond or is CH2; Y is a covalent bond, CH2, C(O)O, or C(O)NR3; R3 is H, methyl or ethyl; M is a covalent bond, -[C(O)O-CH2-CH2]n-, a linear or branched alkylene group with 1 to 6 carbon atoms; Z+ is H+, NH4+, Li+, Na+, K+, % Ca++, % Mg++, % Zn++, or 1/3 Al+++, or combinations thereof.

[00112] In at least one embodiment, the optional monomer (e) is selected from the group consisting of N-vinylformamide, N-vinylacetamide, N-methyl-N-vinylformamide, N-methyl-N-vinylacetamide, N-vinyl-2 -pyrrolidone (NVP), N-vinylcaprolactam, vinylacetate, methylvinyl ether, ethylvinyl ether, methylallyl ether, ethylmethalyl ether, styrol, acetoxystyrol, methylmethalyl ether, ethylalyl ether, tert-butylacrylamide, N,N-diethylacrylamide, N,N-dimethylacrylamide, N ,N-dimethylmethacrylamide, N,N-dipropylacrylamide, N-isopropylacrylamide, N-propylacrylamide, acrylamide, methacrylamide, methylacrylate, methylmethylacrylate, tert-butylacrylate, tert-butylmethacrylate, n-butylacrylate, n-butylmethacrylate, laurylacrylate, laurylmethacrylate , behenylacrylate, behenylmethacrylate, cetylacrylate, cetylmethacrylate, stearylacrylate, stearylmethacrylate, tridecylacrylate, tridecylmethacrylate, polyethoxy-(5)-methacrylate, polyethoxy-(5)-acrylate, polyethoxy-(10)-methacrylate, polyethoxy-(10) -acrylate, behenylpolyethoxy-(7)-methacrylate, beenylpolyethoxy-(7)-acrylate, behenylpolyethoxy-(8)-methacrylate, behenylpolyethoxy-(8)-acrylate, behenylpolyethoxy-(12)-methacrylate, behenylpolyethoxy-(12) - acrylate, behenylpolyethoxy-(16)-methacrylate, behenylpolyethoxy-(16)-acrylate, behenylpolyethoxy-(25)-methacrylate, behenylpolyethoxy-(25)-acrylate, laurylpolyethoxy-(7)-methacrylate, laurylpolyethoxy-(7) -acrylate, laurylpolyethoxy-(8)-methacrylate, laurylpolyethoxy-(8)-acrylate, laurylpolyethoxy-(12)-methacrylate, laurylpolyethoxy-(12)-acrylate, laurylpolyethoxy-(16)-methacrylate, laurylpolyethoxy-(16) -acrylate, laurylpolyethoxy-(22)-methacrylate, laurylpolyethoxy-(22)-acrylate, laurylpolyethoxy-(23)-methacrylate, laurylpolyethoxy-(23)-acrylate, cetylpolyethoxy-(2)-methacrylate, cetylpolyethoxy-(2) -acrylate, cetylpolyethoxy-(7)-methacrylate, cetylpolyethoxy-(7)-acrylate, cetylpolyethoxy-(10)-methacrylate, cetylpolyethoxy-(10)-acrylate, cetylpolyethoxy-(12)-methacrylate, cetylpolyethoxy-(12) -cetylpolyethoxy-acrylate-(16)-methacrylate, cetylpolyethoxy-(16)-acrylate cetylpolyethoxy-(20)-methacrylate, cetylpolyethoxy-(20)-acrylate, cetylpolyethoxy-(25)-methacrylate, cetylpolyethoxy-(25)-acrylate, cetylpolyethoxy -(25)- methacrylate, cetylpolyethoxy-(25)-acrylate, stearylpolyethoxy-(7)-methacrylate, stearylpolyethoxy-(7)-acrylate, stearylpolyethoxy-(8)-methacrylate, stearylpolyethoxy-(8)-acrylate, stearylpolyethoxy -(12)-methacrylate, stearylpolyethoxy-(12)-acrylate, stearylpolyethoxy-(16)-methacrylate, stearylpolyethoxy-(16)-acrylate, stearylpolyethoxy-(22)-methacrylate, stearylpolyethoxy-(22)-acrylate, stearylpolyethoxy-( 23)-methacrylate, stearylpolyethoxy-(23)-acrylate, stearylpolyethoxy-(25)-methacrylate, stearylpolyethoxy-(25)-acrylate, tridecylpolyethoxy-(7)-methacrylate, tridecylpolyethoxy-(7)-acrylate, tridecylpolythoxy -(10)- methacrylate, tridecylpolyethoxy-(10)-acrylate, tridecylpolyethoxy-(12)- methacrylate, tridecylpolyethoxy-(12)-acrylate, tridecylpolyethoxy-(16)- methacrylate, tridecylpolyethoxy-(16)-acrylate, tridecylpolyethoxy-( 22)- tridecylpolyethoxy-(22)-acrylate, tridecylpolyethoxy-(23)-acrylate, tridecylpolyethoxy-(25)-acrylate, methoxy-polyethoxy-(7)-acrylate, methoxypolyethoxy-(12)-acrylate, methoxypolyethoxy-(16) -acrylate, methacrylate, methoxy-polyethoxy-(25)-acrylate, acrylic acid, ammonium acrylate, sodium acrylate, potassium acrylate, lithium acrylate, zinc acrylate, calcium acrylate, magnesium acrylate, zirconium acrylate, methacrylic acid, ammonium methacrylate, sodium methacrylate, potassium methacrylate, lithium methacrylate, calcium methacrylate, magnesium methacrylate, zirconium methacrylate, zinc methacrylate, 2-carboxyethyl acrylate, ammonium 2-carboxyethyl acrylate, 2-carboxyethyl acrylate sodium, potassium 2-carboxyethyl acrylate, lithium 2-carboxyethyl acrylate, zinc 2-carboxyethyl acrylate, calcium 2-carboxyethyl acrylate, magnesium 2-carboxyethyl acrylate, zirconium 2-carboxyethyl acrylate, 2-carboxyethyl acrylate oligomer, 2- ammonium carboxyethylacrylate, sodium 2-carboxyethyl acrylate oligomers, potassium 2-carboxyethyl acrylate oligomers, lithium 2-carboxyethyl acrylate oligomers, zinc 2-carboxyethyl acrylate oligomers, calcium 2-carboxyethyl acrylate oligomers, magnesium 2-carboxyethyl acrylate oligomers , oligomers of zirconium 2-carboxyethyl acrylate, itaconic acid, sodium itaconate, potassium itaconate, lithium itaconate, calcium itaconate, magnesium itaconate, zirconium itaconate, zinc itaconate, 2-ethylacrylic acid, 2 -ammonium ethylacrylate, sodium 2-ethyl acrylate, potassium 2-ethyl acrylate, lithium 2-ethyl acrylate, calcium 2-ethyl acrylate, magnesium 2-ethyl acrylate, zirconium 2-ethyl acrylate, zinc 2-ethyl acrylate, acid 2- propylacrylate, ammonium 2-propylacrylate, sodium 2-propylacrylate, potassium 2-propylacrylate, lithium 2-propylacrylate, lithium 2-propylacrylate, magnesium 2-propylacrylate, magnesium 2-propylacrylate, zirconium 2-propylacrylate, Zinc 2-propylacrylate, glycerin propoxylate triacrylate (GPTA), trimethylolpropane triacrylate (TMPTA), pentaerythritoldiacrylate monostearate (PEAS), polyethylene glycol diacrylate, hexanediol diacrylate (HDDA), hexanediol dimethacrylate (HDDMA), and combinations thereof .

[00113] In a preferred embodiment, the optional monomer (e) is selected from the group consisting of glycerin propoxylate triacrylate (GPTA) and trimethylolpropantriacrylate (TMPTA).

[00114] In a preferred embodiment, the optional monomer (e) is selected from the group consisting of N-vinylformamide, N-vinylacetamide, N-methyl-N-vinylacetamide, N-vinyl-2-pyrrolidone (NVP), N, N-diethylacrylamide, acrylamide, methacrylamide, methylacrylate, methylmethylacrylate, ter-Butylacrylate, acrylic acid, methacrylic acid, 2-carboxyethyl acrylate, 2-carboxyethyl acrylate oligomers, itaconic acid glycerin propoxylate triacrylate (GPTA), trimethylolpropane triacrylate (TMPTA), pentaerythritol diacrylate monostearate (PEAS) and polyethylene glycol diacrylate.

[00115] In at least one embodiment, the optional monomer (e) is selected from the group consisting of acrylic acid, methacrylic acid, styrenesulfonic acid, maleic acid, fumaric acid, crotonic acid, itaconic acid, and senecic acid . In at least one embodiment, the optional monomer is selected from the group consisting of open-chain N-vinyl amides, preferably N-vinylformamide (VI-FA), N-vinylmethylformamide, N-vinylmethylacetamide (VIMA) and N-vinylacetamides; Cyclic N-vinyl amides (N-vinyl lactams) with a ring size of 3 to 9, preferably N-vinylpyrrolidones (NVP) and N-vinylcaprolactam; acrylic and methacrylic acid amides, preferably acrylamide, methacrylamide, N,N-dimethylacrylamide, N,N-diethylacrylamide, and N,N-diisopropylacrylamide; alkoxylated acrylamides and methacrylamides, preferably hydroxyethyl methacrylate, hydroxymethylmethacrylamide; hydroxyethylmethacryl amide, hydroxypropylmethacrylamide, and mono[2-(methacryloyloxy)ethyl]succinate; N,N-dimethylaminomethacrylate; diethylaminomethyl methacrylate; acrylamido- and methacrylamidoglycolic acid; 2- and 4-vinylpyridine; vinyl acetate; glycidyl methacrylate; styrene; acrylonitrile; vinyl chloride; stearyl acrylate; lauryl methacrylate; vinylidene chloride; tetrafluoroethylene; and combinations thereof.

Polymerization

[00116] In at least one embodiment, the above monomers are dissolved or dispersed in a polar solvent. The polymerization is preferably initiated by the addition of a radical-generating compound.

[00117] In at least one embodiment, the monomer according to formula (10) is neutralized with a base before polymerization.

[00118] In at least one embodiment, the monomer according to formula (10) is neutralized after polymerization using a base. In at least one embodiment, in the monomer according to formula (10), R1 and R2 are H; A is -C(CH3)2-H2C-; and Q+ is a cation.

[00119] In at least one embodiment, in formula (10) Q+ is H+, NH4+, morpholine, an organic ammonium ion [NHR5R6R7]+ where R5, R6, and R7 independently of each other are hydrogen, a linear alkyl group or branched having 1 to 22 carbon atoms, a linear or branched mono- or polyunsaturated alkenyl group having 2 to 22 carbon atoms, a C6-C22 alkylamidopropyl group, a linear monohydroxyalkyl group having 2 to 10 carbon atoms, carbon or a linear or branched dihydroxyalkyl group having 3 to 15 carbon atoms, and wherein at least one of the radicals R5, R6, and R7 is not hydrogen, or X+ is Li+, Na+, K+, % Ca++, % Mg++, % Zn++, 1/3 AI+++, or combinations thereof. Preferably Q+ is H+, NH4+ or Na+. More preferably, Q+ is Na+ and NH4+. In at least one embodiment, Q+ is NH4+. In at least one embodiment, Q+ is selected from the group of monoalkylammonium, dialkylammonium, trialkylammonium and/or tetraalkylammonium salts, in which the alkyl substituents of the amines can be, independently of each other, radicals (C1 to C22 )-alkyl or radicals (C2 to C10)-hydroxyalkyl.

[00120] In at least one embodiment, the monomer according to formula (10) is selected from the group consisting of acryloyldimethyltaurates, acryloyl-1,1-dimethyl-2-methyltaurates, acryloyltaurates, acryloyl-N- methyltaurates, and combinations thereof. Preferably the monomer according to formula (10) is acryloyldimethyltaurate.

[00121] In at least one embodiment, the monomer according to formula (10) has a degree of neutralization between 0 mol% and 100 mol%. In at least one embodiment, the monomer according to formula (10) has a degree of neutralization of 50.0 to 100 mol%, preferably 80 mol% to 100 mol%, more preferably 90.0 to 100 mol%, even more preferably from 95.0 to 100 mol%. Particular preference is given to a degree of neutralization of more than 80 mol%, more preferably more than 90 mol%, even more preferably more than 95 mol%.

[00122] In at least one embodiment, the monomer according to formula (10) can be neutralized using ammonium gas, ammonium hydroxide solution, morpholine, monoalkylamine, dialkylamine, trialkylamine, tetraalkylammonium salts, hydrogen carbonate sodium, sodium carbonate, sodium hydroxide, potassium hydrogen carbonate, potassium carbonate, potassium hydroxide, lithium hydrogen carbonate, lithium carbonate, lithium hydroxide, preferably gaseous ammonia, morpholine, and sodium hydrogen carbonate.

[00123] In at least one embodiment, the synthesis of the polymer is carried out by radical precipitation polymerization in a polar solvent or in a mixture of polar solvents. Preferably, the polar solvent or mixture of polar solvents has a boiling point between 60°C and 110°C, preferably between 60°C and 95°C and more preferably between 60°C and 95°C.

[00124] In at least one embodiment, radical precipitation polymerization is carried out in a mixture of polar solvents comprising: I) water and II) another compound.

[00125] In at least one embodiment, compound II) is polar and organic.

[00126] In at least one embodiment, compound II) is one or more polar alcohols and one or more ketones.

[00127] In a preferred embodiment, compound II) is selected from the group consisting of methanol, ethanol, 1-propanol, 2-propanol, 2-methyl-2-propanol, 1-butanol, 2-butanol, dimethyl ketone, diethyl ketone, pentan-2-one, butanone, tetrahydropyran, tetrahydrofuran, 2-methyltetrahydrofuran, 1,3-dioxane, 1,4-dioxane, preferably 2-propanol, 2-methyl-2 -propanol, dimethyl ketone, tetrahydrofuran, 2-methyl-tetrahydrofuran, more preferably 2-methyl-2-propanol and dimethyl ketone.

[00128] In a preferred embodiment, the solvent mixture contains from 0.5 to 10% by weight, preferably from 1 to 8% by weight and more preferably from 2 to 5% by weight of water.

[00129] In a preferred embodiment, the solvent mixture contains from 1 to 99.5% by weight, preferably from 5 to 95% by weight and more preferably from 10 to 90% by weight of 2-methyl-2-propanol .

[00130] In a preferred embodiment, the mixture of polar solvents comprises from 0.5 to 10% by weight of water, from 1 to 98.5% by weight of 2-methyl-2-propanol and from 1 to 98.5 % by weight of dimethyl ketone, preferably from 0.5 to 7.5% by weight of water, from 5 to 94.5% by weight of 2-methyl-2-propanol and from 5 to 94.5% by weight by weight of dimethyl ketone.

[00131] In a preferred embodiment, the polymerization of monomers (a) to (b), optionally (a) to (c), optionally (a) to (d), optionally (a) to (e), is carried out in a mixture of solvents comprising water, 2-methyl-2-propanol and dimethyl ketone. Preferably the water content of the solvent mixture should not be greater than 10% by weight, otherwise the synthesized polymer forms lumps during polymerization.

[00132] In a preferred embodiment, the polymerization reaction is initiated by a radical-generating compound. In at least one embodiment, the radical-generating compound is selected from the group of azo initiators (e.g., azo-bis-isobutyronitrile, 2,2'-azobis(4-methoxy-2,4-dimethyl valeronitrile), 2,2 '-azobis(2,4-dimethyl valeronitrile), dimethyl 2,2'-azobis(2-methylpropionate), 2,2'-azobis(2-methylbutyronitrile), 1,1'-azobis(cyclohexane-1- carbonitrile) or 2,2'-azobis[N-(2-propenyl)-2-methyl-propionamide]), peroxides (e.g. dilauryl peroxide, tert-butyl hydroperoxide, di-tert-butyl peroxide, triphenyl methyl hydroperoxide , benzoyl peroxide) or persulfates. In at least one embodiment, the initiation of polymerization begins in a temperature range between 30 ° C and up to 80 ° C, preferably between 40 ° C and up to 70 ° C for 30 minutes to several hours.

[00133] In at least one embodiment, the polymer has a weight average molecular weight of at least 700 g/mol, preferably 700 g/mol to 10 million g/mol.

THIRD ASPECT

[00134] A third aspect refers to the use of the polymer according to the first aspect as a thickening agent and/or rheology modifier and/or viscosity modifier. For example, the thickening agent and/or rheology modifier can be used as an additive in the petroleum and mining industry, for example, to increase the efficiency of processes for isolating crude oil.

[00135] A thickening agent or thickener is a substance that can increase the viscosity of a liquid without substantially changing its other properties. Edible thickeners are commonly used to thicken sauces, soups, and puddings without altering their flavor; Thickeners are also used in watercolors, paints, explosives, and cosmetics.

[00136] Thickeners can also improve the suspension of other ingredients or emulsions that increase product stability. Thickening agents are generally classified as food additives and as ingredients in cosmetics and personal care products. Some thickening agents are gelling agents, forming a gel, dissolving in the liquid phase as a colloidal mixture that forms a weakly cohesive internal structure. Others act as mechanical thixotropic additives with discrete particles that adhere or interlock to resist stress.

[00137] Thickening agents can also be used when medical conditions such as dysphagia cause individuals difficulty swallowing. Thickened liquids play a vital role in reducing the risk of aspiration in patients with dysphagia.

FOURTH ASPECT

[00138] A fourth aspect refers to a composition comprising the polymer of the first aspect. In at least one embodiment, the composition comprises at least 0.5% by weight of said polymer. In an alternative composition, the composition comprises at least 0.01% by weight, or at least 0.05% by weight, or at least 0.1% by weight, or at least 0.5% by weight, or at least 1% by weight, or at least 1.5% by weight, or at least 2% by weight, or at least 2.5% by weight, or at least 3% by weight, or at least 4% by weight, or at least 5% by weight, or at least 7.5% by weight, or at least 10% by weight, or at least 12% by weight, or at least 15% by weight, or at least 20% by weight, or at least 25% by weight, or at least 30% by weight, or at least 35% by weight, or at least 40% by weight, or at least 45% by weight, or up to 50% by weight of the polymer of the first aspect .

[00139] In at least one embodiment, the composition comprises: (I) the polymer according to the first aspect; and (II) another component.

[00140] In at least one embodiment, the other component is a carrier, solvent or diluent. In at least one embodiment, the composition comprises a solvent, where the solvent comprises water and/or alcohol. A solvent is useful for presenting the compounds used in the present invention in liquid form. In at least one embodiment, the solvent is cosmetically acceptable. In at least one embodiment, the composition comprises at least 10% by weight water. Water is useful for economic reasons, but also because it is cosmetically acceptable. Optionally the composition comprises water-miscible or water-soluble solvents such as lower alkyl alcohols. In at least one embodiment, the composition comprises C1-C5 alkyl monohydric alcohols, preferably C2C3 alkyl alcohols. Alcohols that may be present are in particular lower monohydric or polyhydric alcohols having 1 to 4 carbon atoms normally used for cosmetic purposes, such as preferably ethanol and isopropanol. Optionally, the composition comprises a water-soluble polyhydric alcohol. In at least one embodiment, water-soluble polyhydric alcohols are polyhydric alcohols with two or more hydroxyl groups in the molecule. In at least one embodiment, the water-soluble polyhydric alcohol is selected from the group consisting of: dihydric alcohols such as ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, trimethylene glycol, 1,2-butylene glycol, 1,3- butylene glycol, 1,4-butylene glycol, tetramethylene glycol, 2,3-butylene glycol, pentamethylene glycol, 2-butene-1,4-diol, hexylene glycol, octylene glycol; trihydric alcohols such as glycerin, trimethylol propane, 1,2,6-hexanetriol, among others; tetrahydric alcohols such as pentaerythritol; pentahydric alcohols such as xylitol, etc.; hexahydric alcohols such as sorbitol, mannitol; polymers of polyhydric alcohols such as diethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, polyethylene glycol, polypropylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, diglycerin, polyethylene glycol, triglycerin, tetraglycerin, polyglycerin; alkyl ethers of dihydric alcohols such as ethylene glycol monomethyl ether, ethylene glycol monoethyl ether, ethylene glycol monobutyl ether, ethylene glycol monophenyl ether, ethylene glycol monohexyl ether, ethylene glycol mono-2-methylhexyl ether, ethylene glycol isoamyl ether, ethylene glycol benzyl ether, ethylene glycol isopropyl ether, ethylene glycol dimethyl ether, ethylene glycol diethyl ether, ethylene glycol dibutyl ether; alkyl ethers of dihydric alcohols such as diethylene glycol monomethyl ether, diethylene glycol monoethyl ether, diethylene glycol monobutyl ether, diethylene glycol dimethyl ether, diethylene glycol diethyl ether, diethylene glycol butyl ether, diethylene glycol methyl ethyl ether, triethylene glycol monomethyl ether, triethylene glycol monoethyl ether, propylene glycol monomethyl ether, propylene glycol monoethyl ether, propylene glycol monobutyl ether, propylene glycol isopropyl ether, dipropylene glycol methyl ether, dipropylene glycol ethyl ether, dipropylene glycol butyl ether; ether esters of dihydric alcohols such as ethylene glycol monomethyl ether acetate, ethylene glycol monoethyl ether acetate, ethylene glycol monobutyl ether acetate, ethylene glycol monophenyl ether acetate, ethylene glycol diadipate, ethylene glycol disuccinate, diethylene glycol monoethyl ether acetate , diethylene glycol monobutyl ether acetate, propylene glycol monomethyl ether acetate, propylene glycol monoethyl ether acetate, propylene glycol monopropyl ether acetate, propylene glycol monophenyl ether acetate; glycerin monoalkyl ethers such as xyl alcohol, selacyl alcohol, bathyl alcohol; sugar alcohols such as sorbitol, maltitol, maltotriose, mannitol, sucrose, erythritol, glucose, fructose, starch sugar, maltose, xylitose, reduced starch sugar alcohol, glysolide, tetrahydrofurfuryl alcohol, POE tetrahydrofurfuryl alcohol, POP butyl ether, POP POE butyl ether, tripolyoxypropylene glycerin ether, POP glycerin ether, POP glycerin ether phosphoric acids, POP POE pentanerythritol ether, and mixtures thereof. In a preferred embodiment, the composition comprises a solvent selected from the group consisting of water, glycols, ethanol, and combinations thereof. In a preferred embodiment, the composition comprises an aqueous, alcoholic or aqueous-alcoholic solvent, and wherein the aqueous, alcoholic or aqueous-alcoholic solvent comprises water, ethanol, propanol, isopropanol, 1,2-propylene glycol, 1,3 -propylene glycol, isobutanol, butanol, butyl glycol, butyl diglycol, glycerol, or a mixture thereof; preferably where the aqueous, alcoholic or aqueous-alcoholic solvent comprises water, ethanol, propanol, isopropanol, 1,2-propylene glycol, 1,3-propylene glycol, glycerol, or mixtures thereof; more preferably where the aqueous, alcoholic or aqueous-alcoholic solvent comprises water, isopropanol, 1,2-propylene glycol, 1,3-propylene glycol, or mixtures thereof; even more preferably where the aqueous, alcoholic or aqueous-alcoholic solvent consists of water or consists of a mixture of water and an alcohol wherein the alcohol is selected from the group consisting of isopropanol, 1,2-propylene glycol and 1,3-propylene glycol. Natural solvents can also be used. In at least one embodiment, the composition comprises a solvent selected from the group consisting of vegetable oil, honey, vegetable sugar compositions, and mixtures thereof. In at least one embodiment, the composition comprises from 0.5% by weight to 90% by weight, preferably from 1.0% by weight to 80% by weight, even more preferably from 5.0% by weight to 70% by weight. by weight of at least one carrier, solvent and/or diluent.

[00141] In at least one embodiment, the composition comprising a polymer according to the first aspect refers to a coating and/or adhesive composition. The sulfonic acid group of polymers according to the first aspect gives an ionic character over a wide pH range. The anionic charges of these polymers attached to polymer particles increase the chemical and shear stability of the polymer emulsion and also reduce the amount of surfactants that leach from the paint layer. They improve the thermal and mechanical properties of adhesives, and increase the adhesion strength of pressure-sensitive adhesive formulations.

[00142] In at least one embodiment, the composition comprising a polymer according to the first aspect refers to a detergent composition. Polymers according to the first aspect improve the washing performance of surfactants by binding multivalent cations and reducing dirt binding.

[00143] In at least one embodiment, the composition comprising a polymer according to the first aspect refers to a personal care composition. The strong polar and hydrophilic properties of polymers according to the first aspect are exploited as a very efficient lubricant in skin care compositions. The polymers according to the first aspect can be used in bath compositions and hair care compositions.

[00144] In at least one embodiment, the composition comprising a polymer according to the first aspect refers to a home care composition. The polymers according to the first aspect can perform well in dishwashing compositions, and laundry care compositions and can be used in surface cleaning compositions.

[00145] In at least one embodiment, the composition comprising a polymer according to the first aspect refers to a medical hydrogel. Polymers according to the first aspect demonstrate great water absorption and swelling capacity. Hydrogels with polymers according to the first aspect presented uniform conductivity, low electrical impedance, cohesion strength, adhesion to the appropriate skin, being biocompatible and capable of repeated use and have been used in electrodes of electrocardiography (ECG) devices, electrodes defibrillation pads, electrosurgical earth pads, iontophoretic drug delivery electrodes. The polymers according to the first aspect can be used as the absorbent hydrogel and the adhesive component of bandages.

[00146] In at least one embodiment, the composition comprising a polymer according to the first aspect refers to a composition for use in medicine. The polymers according to the first aspect can be used in pharmaceuticals and pharmaceutical compositions, in the production of medicines and in medical devices.

[00147] In at least one embodiment, the composition comprising a polymer according to the first aspect refers to hygiene compositions. Polymers according to the first aspect demonstrate a great capacity for absorption and swelling of organic solvents such as ethanol, ethyl acetate, or dimethyl ketone. Organic solvent hydrogels are used in disinfectant products.

[00148] In at least one embodiment, the composition comprising a polymer according to the first aspect refers to compositions for use in the petroleum industry. Polymers according to the first aspect in compositions for use in the petroleum industry need to resist hostile environments and require thermal and hydrolytic stability and resistance to hard water containing metal ions. For example, in drilling and cementing operations where high salinity, high temperature, and high pressure conditions are present, these polymers can inhibit fluid loss and be used in petroleum environments as scale inhibitors, flow improvers in pipelines , as additives in refining process chemicals, friction reducers and water controlling polymers, and in polymer irrigation compositions.

[00149] In at least one embodiment, the composition comprising a polymer according to the first aspect refers to water treatment compositions. The cation stability of ACDMT-containing polymers is very useful for water treatment processes. Such low molecular weight polymers can not only inhibit calcium, magnesium, and silica scale in cooling towers and boilers, but also help control corrosion by dispersing iron oxide. When high molecular weight polymers are used, they can be used to precipitate solids in the treatment of industrial effluents.

[00150] In at least one embodiment, the composition comprising a polymer according to the first aspect refers to compositions for crop protection. Polymers according to the first aspect increase, in dissolved and nanoparticulate polymer formulations, the bioavailability of pesticides in aqueous organic formulations.

[00151] In at least one embodiment, the composition comprising a polymer according to the first aspect refers to membranes. Polymers according to the first aspect increase water flow, retention and clogging resistance of ultrafiltration and microfiltration membranes and are being studied as an anionic component in polymeric fuel cell membranes.

[00152] In at least one embodiment, the composition comprising a polymer according to the first aspect refers to compositions for use in construction. Polymers according to the first aspect can be used as superplasticizers to reduce water in concrete formulations. The advantages of these additives include improved strength, improved workability, increased durability of cement mixtures. Dispersible polymer powder, when ACDMT of biological origin is introduced, into cement mixtures controls the air pore content and prevents agglomeration of powders during the spray drying process of powder production and storage. Coating compositions with the polymers according to the first aspect prevent the formation of calcium ions as slime on the concrete surface and improve the appearance and durability of the coating.

[00153] In at least one embodiment, the composition comprising a polymer according to the first aspect refers to a composition for use in a fire-fighting device for grade A fire. The liquid polymer solution absorbs a large amount of its own in water and forms an adhesive and thermal insulating gel that does not contain air bubbles, but consists of uniformly thick water. The composition comprising a polymer according to the first aspect has very good adhesive quality. It adheres at a thickness of up to 10 mm to smooth vertical surfaces (i.e. windows) or to ceilings.

[00154] In at least one embodiment, the composition comprising a polymer according to the first aspect refers to lubricant and fuel compositions.

[00155] In at least one embodiment, the composition comprising a polymer according to the first aspect refers to compositions for transmission lines.

[00156] In at least one embodiment, the composition comprising a polymer according to the first aspect refers to engine oil compositions.

[00157] In at least one embodiment, the composition comprising a polymer according to the first aspect refers to fuel compositions.

[00158] In at least one embodiment, the composition comprising a polymer according to the first aspect refers to industrial lubricant compositions.

[00159] In at least one embodiment, the composition comprising a polymer according to the first aspect can be used in ion exchange resins.

EXAMPLES

[00160] The following examples are intended to illustrate the subject matter of the invention, without limiting it. Polymerization process A: General tert-butanol precipitation polymerization procedure

[00161] Introduce into a 1 liter round bottom Quickfit flask equipped with a reflux condenser, a subsurface gas inlet pipe, an internal temperature sensor and an overhead stirrer 400 g of ter-butanol with a water content of 3% by weight. Add 69 g of ACDMT of biological origin according to the invention and 9.2 g of carboxyethyl acrylate. Neutralize the ACDMT to a pH of 7 to 8 by injecting ammonia gas above the surface. Keep the surface temperature below 40°C. Introduce 0.93 g of GPTA as a crosslinker and 3.71 g of methyl acrylate as a neutral monomer according to table A. Inject nitrogen below the surface for 1 hour with stirring at 200 rpm. During this period the temperature of the reaction mixture is increased and stabilized at 60°C with the help of a water bath. Readjust the pH to 60°C to a pH of 7 to 8. The reaction is initiated by applying a radical-generating compound, 1.1 g of V-601.

[00162] After a few minutes the beginning of polymerization becomes obvious due to the increase in temperature and the precipitation of a polymer. When the maximum temperature is reached, heat the reaction to a gentle reflux for two hours. Cool the reaction mixture to room temperature and dry the polymer suspension at 60 °C in a 150 mbar vacuum.

[00163] Polymerization process B: General precipitation polymerization procedure in ter-butanol/dimethylketone mixture

[00164] Introduce into a 1 liter round bottom Quickfit flask equipped with a reflux condenser, a subsurface gas inlet pipe, an internal temperature sensor and an overhead stirrer 200 g ter-butanol and 200 g dimethyl ketone with a water content of 2.5% by weight. Add 90 g of ACDMT of biological origin according to the invention and 8.25 g of carboxyethyl acrylate. Neutralize ACDMT and carboxyethyl by introducing 41.3 g of sodium hydrogen carbonate. Keep the temperature below 40°C. Introduce 0.88 g of GPTA as a crosslinker and 0.44 g of methyl acrylate as a neutral monomer according to table B. Inject nitrogen below the surface for 1 hour with stirring at 200 rpm. During this period the temperature of the reaction mixture is increased and stabilized at 60°C with the help of a water bath. Readjust the pH to 60°C to a pH of 7 to 8. The reaction is initiated by applying a radical-generating compound, 1.1 g V-601

[00165] After a few minutes the beginning of polymerization becomes obvious due to the increase in temperature and the precipitation of a polymer. When the maximum temperature is reached, heat the reaction to a gentle reflux for two hours. Cool the reaction mixture to room temperature and dry the polymer suspension at 60°C in a 150 mbar vacuum. Table a): Polymers according to polymerization process A: ACDMT = acryloyldimethyltaurate, NVP = N-vinylpyrrolidone, DMAAm = dimethylacrylamide, 1rMPTA = rimethylolpropane triacrylate, TM PTA = trimethylolpropane triacrylate, TMPTMA = trimethylolpropane trimethacrylate, GPTA = glycerinpropoxylate triacrylate, PEAS = pentaerythritoldiacrylate monostearate, DLP = di laurylperoxide, V-601 = dimethyl 2,2'-azobis(2-methylpropionate, PEG 600 DMA = polyethylene glycol dimethacrylate (600 g/mol). Table B): Polymers according to polymerization process B: ACDMT = acryloyldimethyltaurate, NVP = N-vinylpyrrolidone, DMAAm = dimethylacrylamide, TMPTA = trimethylolpropane triacrylate, TMPTA = trimethylolpropane triacrylate, TMPTMA = trimethylolpropane trimethacrylate, GPTA = glycerin propoxylate triacrylate, PEAS = pentaerythritoldiacrylate monostearate, DLP = dilaurylperoxide, V-601 = dimethyl 2 ,2'-azobis(2-methylpropionate).

Analytical methods Determination of Fickenscher k value:

[00166] This method was used to determine the k value of certain polymers in accordance with the DIN EN ISO 1628-1 standard.

[00167] Measuring a k value was a way to indirectly analyze the molecular weight/size of a polymer. A comparatively higher k value corresponds to a larger molecular weight/size compared to a polymer with the same composition and made by the same process.

[00168] By measuring the passage time of a solvent (t0) and the passage time of a polymer solution (tc) through the capillary of a Ubbelhode viscometer, the relative viscosity was determined.

[00169] From the relative viscosity z, the value k can be calculated according to

[00170] In this case

[00171] Here it was defined as: relative viscosity, dynamic viscosity of the solution, dynamic viscosity of the solvent and mass concentration of the polymer in solution in g/c3

[00172] Alternatively, the k value can be evaluated from lists offered by the equipment manufacturer.

[00173] After determining the mass concentration of the polymer solution by microwave drying with a CEM Smart 5 at 120°C, 20 ml of a 0.5% polymer solution was prepared. 16 to 18 ml of the solution were measured in a Ubbelhode capillary viscometer at 25°C. The Ubbelhode capillary viscometer was chosen because it has a passage time of 100 to 120 seconds. It was measured on a Schott AVS viscometer, combined with a CT 1150 thermostat and CK 100 flow cooler.

[00174] The IT unit calculated the k value.

[00175] Brookfield viscosity in 1% solution:

[00176] Brookfield viscosity was determined with a Brookfield viscometer model LV, RVT DV-II or LVT DV-II.

[00177] In a 600 ml beaker, 4 g of dry polymer were dissolved in 394 g of distilled water. The solution was stirred for 2 hours at 20°C with a paddle stirrer driven by an overhead stirrer at 200 rpm. Then, the polymer solution, free of trapped air, was tempered for 16 hours at 20°C. The spindle was chosen to measure between 20 and 80% of the crusts at 20 rpm.

[00178] Brookfield viscosity in solution as such.

[00179] Brookfield viscosity was determined with a Brookfield viscometer model LV, RVT DV-II or LVT DV-II.

[00180] In a 600 ml beaker, the polymer solution, free of trapped air, was tempered for 2 hours at 20°C. The spindle was chosen to measure between 20 and 80% of the crusts at 20 rpm.

[00181] The analytical procedure for determining the content of material of biological origin was carried out in accordance with ASTM 686612, Method B:

[00182] The sample material presented did not undergo any pre-treatment procedure and was converted into graphite using the following procedure.

[00183] Depending on the estimated amount of carbon content, typically a few milligrams of sample material are burned in an elemental analyzer (EA). The resulting gas mixture was scrubbed and the CO2 was automatically separated by the EA through purge and trap technology. The remaining CO2 was transferred to a customized graphitization system, converted into carbon (graphite) catalytically using H2 and an iron powder catalyst.

[00184] The determination of carbon-14 in graphite was carried out at the Klaus-Tschira-Archaeometrie-Center using a MICADAS-type accelerator mass spectrometer (AMS) (developed at ETH Zurich, Switzerland).

EXPERIMENTAL Example 1 Polymers according to polymerization process A

[00185] The following example uses Polymer-A 8 (see above, according to the invention) and compares it with PolymerA-8#. Polymer-A 8# is the same polymer as Polymer-A 8, but with common building blocks derived from petrochemicals, i.e., a comparative example.

[00186] Typical measurements of Polymer-A 8 and Polymer-A 8# showed very similar results (see Experimental Table 1), therefore, Polymer-A 8 and Polymer-A 8# are interchangeable with each other. Experimental Table 1: Polymers according to polymerization process A. Viscosity measurement: Brookfield RVDV-1, 20°C, 20 rpm.

Claims (15)

1. Polymer, characterized by the fact that it comprises: (a) from 9.49 mol% to 98 mol% of repeating units (a) resulting from the incorporation of acryloyldimethyltaurate in which at least 10% by weight of the repeating units resulting from the incorporation of acryloyldimethyltaurate comprise from 28% by weight to 100% by weight of carbon content of biological material, in relation to the total mass of carbon in the repeating unit (a) resulting from the incorporation of acryloyldimethyltaurate, measured in accordance with ASTM D6866- 12, Method B; wherein acryloyldimethyltaurate is prepared from acrylonitrile, isobutene and a mixture of sulfuric acid and fuming sulfuric acid comprising sulfur trioxide, wherein at least one of acrylonitrile and isobutene is of biological origin, and wherein the acid groups sulfonic repeat units resulting from the incorporation of acryloyldimethyltaurate comprise Q+ counterions, where Q+ is H+, NH4+, organic ammonium ions [NHR5R6R7]+ where R5, R6, and R7 independently of each other can be hydrogen, a linear alkyl group or branched having 1 to 22 carbon atoms, a linear or branched alkenyl group, with one or multiple unsaturations having 2 to 22 carbon atoms, a C6-C22 alkylamidopropyl group, a linear monohydroxyalkyl group having 2 to carbon atoms or a linear or branched dihydroxyalkyl group having 3 to carbon atoms, and wherein at least one of the radicals R5, R6, and R7 is not hydrogen, or Q+ is Li+, Na+, K+, % Ca++, % Mg++, % Zn++, 1 /3 Al+++, or combinations thereof; (b) from 0.01 mol% to 5 mol% crosslinking or branching units, wherein the crosslinking or branching units result from the incorporation of a monomer comprising at least two olefinically unsaturated double bonds; (c) from 0.01 mol% to 88.52 mol% repetitive neutral structural units; (d) from 1.98 mol% to 20 mol% repetitive anionic structural units, wherein the repetitive anionic structural units result from the incorporation of a monomer comprising at least one carboxylate anion, and wherein the repetitive anionic structural units are different from units (a). 2. Polymer according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that at least 25% by weight of the repeating units (a) resulting from the incorporation of acryloyldimethyltaurate comprise from 28% by weight to 100% by weight of carbon content of biological material , in relation to the total mass of carbon in the repeating unit resulting from the incorporation of acryloyldimethyltaurate, measured in accordance with ASTM D6866-12, Method B. 3. Polymer according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by the fact that the repetitive units (a) resulting from the incorporation of acryloyldimethyltaurate have a degree of neutralization of 50.0 to 100 mol%. 4. Polymer according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that Q+ is H+, Li+, Na+, K+, ^Ca++, ^Mg++, ^Zn++, 1/3 AI+++, or combinations thereof. 5. Polymer according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that Q+ is Na+. 6. Polymer according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that it comprises from 37 mol% to 96.4 mol% units (a), from 0.1 mol% to 3 mol% of units (b), from 0.1 mol% to 59.3 mol% units (c), and from 3.5 mol% to 16 mol% units (d). 7. Polymer according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the acryloyldimethyltaurate comprises from 35% by weight to 100% by weight of carbon content of biological material, relative to the total mass of carbon in the acryloyldimethyl - taurate, measured according to ASTM D6866-12, Method B. 8. Polymer according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the acryloyldimethyltaurate comprises 100% by weight of carbon content of biological material, in relation to the total mass of carbon in the acryloyldimethyltaurate, measured in accordance with the standard ASTM D6866-12, Method B. 9. Polymer according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the cross-linking or branching units result from the incorporation of a monomer according to formula (4) where R1 is independently selected from H, methyl or ethyl; and R2 is a linear or branched alkyl group having 1 to 6 carbon atoms, or is a linear or branched, mono- or polyunsaturated alkylene group having 2 to 6 carbon atoms; D, E, and F are independently methylene-oxy(-CH2O), ethylene-oxy(-CH2-CH2-O-), propylene-oxy(-CH(CH3)-CH2-O-), an al group - linear or branched kylene having 1 to 6 carbon atoms, a linear or branched alkyenylene group with one or multiple unsaturations having 2 to 6 carbon atoms, a linear monohydroxyalkylene group having 2 to 6 carbon atoms or a di- linear or branched hydroxyalkylene having 3 to 6 carbon atoms; and o, p, and q are each independently an integer from 1 to 50. 10. Polymer according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the crosslinking or branching units (b) result from the incorporation of a crosslinker selected from the group consisting of trimethylolpropane triacrylate (TMP-TA) and/ or glycerol propoxylate triacrylate (GPTA). 11. Polymer according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the polymer consists of units (a), units (b), units (c) and units (d). 12. Polymer according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that the polymer has a weight average molecular weight of 700 g/mol to 10 million g/mol. 13. Process for obtaining a polymer, characterized by the fact that it comprises the polymerization of: (a) at least one acryloyldimethyltaurate monomer according to formula (10) comprising from 28% by weight to 100% by weight of carbon from biological material, relative to the total mass of carbon in the acryloyldimethyltaurate monomer according to formula (10), measured in accordance with ASTM D6866-12, Method B; (b) at least one cross-linking or branching monomer; (c) at least one neutral monomer; and (d) at least one anionic monomer; wherein the cross-linking or branching monomer has at least two olefinically unsaturated double bonds; and where formula (10) is: where: R1 and R2 are H; A is C(CH3)2-H2C; and wherein the acryloyldimethyltaurate monomer is prepared from acrylonitrile, isobutene and a mixture of sulfuric acid and fuming sulfuric acid comprising sulfur trioxide, wherein at least one of acrylonitrile and isobutene is of biological origin; and wherein Q+ is H+, NH4+, organic ammonium ions [NHR5R6R7]+ where R5, R6, and R7 independently of each other may be hydrogen, a linear or branched alkyl group having 1 to 22 carbon atoms, a linear alkenyl group or branched, with one or multiple unsaturations having 2 to 22 carbon atoms, a C6-C22 alkylamidopropyl group, a linear monohydroxyalkyl group having 2 to carbon atoms or a linear or branched dihydroxyalkyl group having 3 to carbon atoms , and where at least one of the radicals R5, R6, and R7 is not hydrogen, or Q+ is Li+, Na+, K+, % Ca++, % Mg++, % Zn++, 1/3 Al+++, or combinations thereof. 14. Use of the polymer as defined in any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized by the fact that it is as a thickening agent and/or rheology modifier and/or viscosity modifier. 15. Composition, characterized by the fact that it comprises: (a) a polymer as defined in any one of claims 1 to 12; and (b) another component.