Work

End group removal and modification of RAFT polymers

Year: 2009

Type: article

Abstract: This paper describes both well-established routes and recent advances in the end group modification of polymers synthesised by reversible addition–fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerisation. The lability of the thiocarbonylthio group, which facilitates the RAFT mechanism, allows for ready post-polymerisation functionalisation of RAFT polymers by a number of techniques. In particular, end group thermolysis, radical induced reduction, hetero-Diels–Alder reactions and reaction with nucleophiles are discussed as are the applications and limitations of each method. The versatility of RAFT as a polymerisation tool for the synthesis of polymers with functional end groups for a range of applications is demonstrated.

Source: Polymer Chemistry

DOI: 10.1039/b9py00340a

Authors: Helen Willcock, Rachel K. O'Reilly

Institution: University of Warwick

Language: English

Topic: Advanced Polymer Synthesis and Characterization

Subfield: Organic Chemistry

Field: Chemistry

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: green

Funder: Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council

Award: Responsive polymeric nanoreactors