Complex polymer architectures via RAFT polymerization: From fundamental process to extending the scope using click chemistry and nature's building blocks

Reversible addition fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization has made a huge impact in macromolecular design. The first block copolymers were described early on, followed by star polymers and then graft polymers. In the last five years, the types of architectures available have become more and more complex. Star and graft polymers now have block structures within their branches, or a range of different branches can be found growing from one core or backbone. Even the synthesis of hyperbranched polymers can be positively influenced by RAFT polymerization, allowing end group control or control over the branching density. The creative combination of RAFT polymerization with other polymerization techniques, such as ATRP or ring-opening polymerization, has extended the array of available architectures. In addition, dendrimers were incorporated either as star core or endfunctionalities. A range of synthetic chemistry pathways have been utilized and combined with polymer chemistry, pathways such as ‘click chemistry’. These combinations have allowed the creation of novel structures. RAFT processes have been combined with natural polymers and other naturally occurring building blocks, including carbohydrates, polysaccharides, cyclodextrins, proteins and peptides. The result from the intertwining of natural and synthetic materials has resulted in the formation of hybrid biopolymers. Following these developments over the last few years, it is remarkable to see that RAFT polymerization has grown from a lab curiosity to a polymerization tool that is now been used with confidence in material design. Most of the described synthetic procedures in the literature in recent years, which incorporate RAFT polymerization, have been undertaken in order to design advanced materials.     

基于环糊精的星形聚合物的合成方法研究进展

综述了基于环糊精（CD）的星形聚合物合成方法的研究进展,涉及开环聚合、原子转移自由基聚合（AT-RP）、点击反应以及可逆加成-断裂链转移（RAFT）聚合等.     

Synthesis of Miktoarm Dumbbell-Like Amphiphilic Triblock Copolymer by Combination of Consecutive RAFT Polymerizations and ATRP

Summary  A novel synthetic route, combining three reversible addition-fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) and one atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) processes, for the preparation of a miktoarm dumbbell-like amphiphilic triblock copolymer, poly(poly(ethylene glycol) methyl ether methacrylate)-b-polystyrene-b-(poly(4-vinylbenzyl chloride)-g-polystyrene) (PPEGMA-b-PS-b-(PVBC-g-PS)), was developed using 2-cyanoprop-2-yl 1-dithionaphthalate (CPDN) as a RAFT agent, and the benzyl chloride group of the VBC units in the PVBC block as active ATRP macroinitiators, respectively. The structures of the obtained (co)polymers were characterized by ¹H NMR spectroscopy. The obtained PPEGMA-b-PS-b-(PVBC-g-PS) amphiphilic triblock graft copolymer could self-assemble into spherical micelles with 100-300 nm diameters in a selective solvent.     

A new approach to 3-miktoarm star polymers using a combination of reversible addition-fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) and ring opening polymerization (ROP) via “Click” chemistry

The synthesis of AB₂-type miktoarm star polymers using a combination of reversible addition-fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT), ring opening polymerization (ROP) and “Click” chemistry was demonstrated in this work. An azide functional RAFT agent was used to polymerize butyl acrylate, polyethylene glycol acrylate and N-isopropylacrylamide monomers. Propargylamine was reacted with glycerine carbonate to obtain a dihydroxy functional alkyne compound which was used for the ring opening polymerization of ?-caprolactone (?-CL) and lactide. The resulting alkyne functional polycaprolactone (PCL) and polylactide (PLA) polymers were reacted with azide functional polymers in the presence of copper bromide (CuBr) catalyst to obtain miktoarm star polymers. The polymers were characterized by gel permeation chromatography (GPC), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. The star polymers had low polydispersity (∼1.3) with well-defined structures. These polymers have a number of potential applications including crosslinking agents for polyurethane (PU) coatings for biodegradable and fouling release applications.     

Synthesis, characterization and modification of azide-containing dendronized diblock copolymers

A series of dendronized diblock copolymers having rigid backbone and reactive surface were synthesized by ring-opening metathesis polymerization (ROMP) from dendronized norbornene derivatives using the second generation Grubb's catalyst. The bromine-terminated block of those rigid nanostructures has been converted to more reactive azide groups in one straightforward step. The resulting polymers were then functionalized by post-polymerization reaction with fullerene C₆₀ (electron acceptor) using thermal [3 + 2] cycloaddition reaction or with porphyrin (electron donor) using copper-catalyzed “click chemistry”, the ultimate goal being the preparation of efficient polymeric materials for photovoltaic applications. While fullerene addition was not complete (approximately 50%) because of cross-linking reactions and steric hindrance on the dendrimers surface, Zn-porphyrin introduction went to completion clearly demonstrating the usefulness of click chemistry for polymer functionalization.     

Strain-promoted azide-alkyne cycloaddition “click” as a conjugation tool for building topological polymers

Strain-promoted azide-alkyne cycloaddition “click” reaction (SPAAC) was successfully used as a tool in synthesis of star polymers by grafting onto approach. The application of SPAAC method in star polymer synthesis was investigated for coupling reaction of the dibenzocyclooctyne (DIBO) end group of polystyrene (PS) and poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) with coupling agents bearing 2, 3, or 4 azido groups. Firstly, well-defined linear DIBO-terminated PS was obtained by atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) of styrene using a DIBO containing ATRP initiator and linear DIBO-terminated PEG was obtained by terminal functionalization of PEG monomethyl ether (PEG-OH). Then a series of star PS and PEG bearing two, three and four arms were prepared respectively by subjecting SPAAC coupling reaction between the linear polymer-DIBO and the azido tethered core molecules at 30 °C without catalyst. The obtained star PS showed a well-defined structure after fractional precipitation to remove slightly excess linear polymers, and all the star polymers were characterized via Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), ¹H nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (¹H NMR), size exclusion chromatography (SEC) and matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS).     

Synthesis of phenylphosphinic acid-containing amphiphilic homopolymers by reversible addition-fragmentation transfer (RAFT) polymerization and its aggregation in water

A novel amphiphilic phosphorus-containing polymer was prepared by RAFT polymerization of 3-[2-(acryloyloxy)ethoxy]-3-oxopropyl(phenyl) phosphinic acid (AOPA). The monomer was first synthesized by esterification of 3-[hydroxy(phenyl)phosphoryl]propanoic acid and 2-hydroxyethyl acrylate, and then the polymerizations were performed at 60 °C. The polymerization was well controlled, and the polymers with “well-defined” structures were successfully synthesized. The polymers can self-assemble to form the micelles in distilled water due to the special amphiphilic structure, and the shell of the micelles could be cross-linked by the coordination of phosphinic acid with cations. The property may promote the polymers to be used in the ionic exchange for the environment protection.     

Polymer vectors via controlled/living radical polymerization for gene delivery

The design of efficient gene delivery vectors is a challenging task in gene therapy. Recent progress in living/controlled radical polymerizations (LRPs), in particular atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) and reversible addition-fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization providing a means for the design and synthesis of new polymeric gene vectors with well-defined compositions, architectures and functionalities is reviewed here. Polymeric gene vectors with different architectures, including homopolymers, block copolymers, graft copolymers, and star-shaped polymers, are conveniently prepared via ATRP and RAFT polymerization. The corresponding synthesis strategies are described in detail. The recent research activities indicate that ATRP and RAFT polymerization have become essential tools for the design and synthesis of advanced, noble and novel gene carriers.     

End‐functional polymers,thiocarbonylthio group removal/transformation and reversible addition–fragmentation–chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization

This review focuses on processes for thiocarbonylthio group removal/transformation of polymers synthesized by radical polymerization with reversible addition‐fragmentation‐chain transfer (RAFT). A variety of processes have now been reported in this context. These include reactions with nucleophiles, radical‐induced reactions, thermolysis, electrocyclic reactions and ‘click’ processes. We also consider the use of RAFT‐synthesized polymers in the construction of block or graft copolymers, functional nanoparticles and biopolymer conjugates where transformation of the thiocarbonylthio group is an integral part of the process. This includes the use of RAFT‐synthesized polymers in other forms of radical polymerization such as atom transfer radical polymerization or nitroxide‐mediated polymerization, and the ‘switching’ of thiocarbonylthio groups to enable control over polymerization of a wider range of monomers in the RAFT process. With each process we provide information on the scope and, where known, indicate the mechanism, advantages and limitations. Copyright © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry     

Synthesis and characterization of azobenzene-functionalized poly(styrene)-b-poly(vinyl acetate) via the combination of RAFT and “click” chemistry

Here, we described a strategy for preparing well-defined block copolymers, poly(styrene)-b-poly(vinyl acetate) (PS-b-PVAc), containing middle azobenzene moiety via the combination of the reversible addition-fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization and “click” chemistry. Firstly, a novel RAFT agent containing α-alkyne and azobenzene chromophore in R group, 2-(3-ethynylphenylazophenoxycarbonyl)prop-2-yl-9H-carbazole-9-carbodithioate (EACDT), was synthesized and used to mediate the RAFT polymerization of styrene (St). Well-defined α-alkyne end-functionalized poly(styrene) (PS) was obtained. Secondly, the RAFT polymerization of vinyl acetate (VAc) was conducted using functionalized RAFT reagent with ω-azide structure in Z group, O-(2-azidoethyl) S-benzyl dithiocarbonate (AEBDC). Well-defined ω-azide end-functionalized poly(vinyl acetate) (PVAc) was obtained. Afterwards, the resulting α-alkyne terminated PS was coupled by “click” chemistry with the azide terminated PVAc. The block copolymer, PS-b-PVAc, was obtained with tailored structures. The products from each step were characterized and confirmed by GPC, ¹H NMR, IR and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) examination. Kinetics of the trans-cis-trans isomerization from azobenzene chromophore in PS-b-PVAc and PS were investigated in CHCl₃ solutions.     

甲基丙烯酸酯/二甲基丙烯酸酯自由基共聚合体系中的自加速和凝胶行为

对甲基丙烯酸聚乙二醇单醚酯/二甲基丙烯酸聚乙二醇酯共聚体系分别实施常规自由基聚合（FRP）,原子转移自由基聚合（ATRP）和可逆加成-断裂链转移（RAFT）自由基聚合,通过观察聚合速率、双键转化率、凝胶点以及交联网络的发展,比较FRP、ATRP和RAFT共聚合体系的反应动力学和交联行为。3个聚合体系均出现了自加速现象,ATRP体系的自加速由扩散控制的自由基脱活造成,RAFT体系的自加速来自于扩散控制的自由基加成。在ATRP和RAFT交联体系中,初级链的缓慢增长和充分松弛减少了分子内环化,抑制了微凝胶形成,因此其凝胶点远低于FRP体系。ATRP和RAFT交联网络通过凝胶自由基与单体加成以及支化链的结合而不断发展,导致凝胶含量和交联网络密度随转化率不断增大。     

Synthesis of polystyrene end-capped with pyrene via reversible addition-fragmentation chain transfer polymerization

A novel benzodithioate compound with a pyrene structure in the R group, pyrenylmethyl benzodithioate (PMB) was synthesized. Using PMB as the chain transfer agent (CTA), the RAFT polymerizations of styrene with AIBN as an initiator were carried out in different reaction conditions. The results indicated that PMB was an effective CTA for the RAFT polymerizations of styrene with the “living”/controlled characteristics. The structures of the obtained polymers were characterized by ¹H NMR. The results showed that majority of the polymer chains contained the pyrene moiety in the chain end. The enhanced fluorescence property in CHCl₃ solution was observed. The chain-extension experiments of the obtained polystyrene (PS) with the monomers of styrene and methyl acrylate were successfully carried out.     

Synthesis and characterization of poly(HEMA‐co‐MMA)‐g‐POSS nanocomposites by combination of reversible addition fragmentation chain transfer polymerization and click chemistry

New hybrid poly(hydroxyethyl methacrylate‐co‐methyl methacrylate)‐g‐polyhedral oligosilsesquioxane [poly(HEMA‐co‐MMA)‐g‐POSS] nanocomposites were synthesized by the combination of reversible addition fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization and click chemistry using a grafting to protocol. Initially, the random copolymer poly(HEMA‐co‐MMA) was prepared by RAFT polymerization of HEMA and MMA. Alkynyl side groups were introduced onto the polymeric backbones by esterification reaction between 4‐pentynoic acid and the hydroxyl groups on poly(HEMA‐co‐MMA). Azide‐substituted POSS (POSS? N₃) was prepared by the reaction of chloropropyl‐heptaisobutyl‐substituted POSS with NaN₃. The click reaction of poly(HEMA‐co‐MMA)‐alkyne and POSS? N₃ using CuBr/PMDEATA as a catalyst afforded poly(HEMA‐co‐MMA)‐g‐POSS. The structure of the organic/inorganic hybrid material was investigated by Fourier transformed infrared, ¹H‐NMR, and ²⁹Si‐NMR. The elemental mapping analysis of the hybrid using X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy and EDX also suggest the formation of poly(HEMA‐co‐MMA)‐anchored POSS nanocomposites. The XRD spectrum of the nanocomposites gives evidence that the incorporation of POSS moiety leads to a hybrid physical structure. The morphological feature of the hybrid nanocomposites as captured by field emission scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopic analyses indicate that a thick layer of polymer brushes was immobilized on the POSS cubic nanostructures. The gel permeation chromatography analysis of poly(HEMA‐co‐MMA) and poly(HEMA‐co‐MMA)‐g‐POSS further suggests the preparation of nanocomposites by the combination of RAFT and click chemistry. The thermogravimetric analysis revealed that the thermal property of the poly(HEMA‐co‐MMA) copolymer was significantly improved by the inclusion of POSS in the copolymer matrix. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013     

Syntheses and second-order nonlinear optical properties of a series of new “H”-shape polymers

To develop more “H”-shape nonlinear optical polymers, in this paper, four new polymers embedded with “H”-type chromophore moieties were designed and synthesized through a Suzuki coupling copolymerization reaction. The “H”-type chromophores were easily prepared by the utilization of “Click Chemistry” reactions, and their structures could be conveniently adjusted by changing the diazido groups. All the polymers exhibited good film-forming ability, thermal stability, and large optical nonlinearities. As a typical example, P4 demonstrated the highest d₃₃ value of 94.7 pm/V, and its onset temperature for decay was up to 103 °C, making it promising candidate for practical applications in photonic fields.     

Photomediated controlled radical polymerization

Photomediated controlled radical polymerization is a versatile method to prepare, under mild conditions, various well-defined polymers with complex architecture, such as block and graft copolymers, sequence-controlled polymers, or hybrid materials via surface-initiated polymerization. It also provides opportunity to manipulate the reaction through spatiotemporal control. This review presents a comprehensive account of the fundamentals and applications of various photomediated CRP techniques, including atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP), reversible addition-fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT), nitroxide mediated polymerization (NMP) and other procedures. In addition, mechanistic aspects of other photomediated methods are discussed.     

Design and synthesis of star polymers with hetero-arms by the combination of controlled radical polymerizations and click chemistry

An alternative approach to the synthesis of well-defined star polymers with hetero-arms was described. An azide-functionalized dithioester chain transfer agent (CTA-N₃) was designed and synthesized. Using CTA-N₃ as the reversible addition-fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) agent, styrene was polymerized in a controlled manner. The so-obtained polystyrene showed a high proportion of azide-functionalized chains (PS-N₃, about 92%). The azide end-capped PS-N₃ could be assembled, via click reaction with a bromide-containing trialkyne coupling agent, to form a 3-arm star polystyrene (PS₃-Br) with a narrow molecular weight distribution. PS₃-Br could further serve as a macro-initiator for the atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) of methyl methacrylate (MMA). Accordingly, well-defined star polymers containing three polystyrene and one poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) arms, and with a narrow molecular weight distribution, were successfully prepared.     

Synthesis of star polymers by “core-first” one–pot method via ATRP: Monte Carlo simulations

Results of the simulation of star polymers synthesis by one–pot, core–first method are presented. The simulated ideal living polymerization process consists of two steps. In the first one (core growth) an atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) of a crosslinker is performed. When the crosslinker conversion is close to completion, a bifunctional monomer is added and the ATRP polymerization of the monomer takes place from the obtained cores to form linear arms of the stars. The simulation method is based on dynamic lattice liquid (DLL) algorithm, which takes into account changes of local dynamics resulting from polymerization and formation of complex polymer molecules. In the first stage of the synthesis (core formation), in addition to the effect of concentrations of initiator and crosslinker, the rate of intramolecular crosslinking is also very important. This process “consumes” the reactive crosslinker in the cores, limiting the core size and preventing further star–star coupling. The effect of various parameters on star size and internal structure was studied. These parameters involve the rate of intramolecular crosslinking, initial concentrations of the components and the moment of monomer addition. The results can be used as guidelines for the experimental work on star synthesis.     

Synthesis and fluorescence properties of star‐shaped polymers carrying two fluorescent moieties

A well‐defined fluorescent star‐shaped polymer containing two different fluorescent functionalities one in the main chain and another in the end group was designed and synthesized by combining atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) and azide‐alkyne click reaction. The star polymer with four arms was prepared from copolymerization of methyl methacrylate and 4‐(2‐(9‐anthryl))‐vinyl‐styrene using ATRP. Subsequently the end group was modified with another fluorescent moiety by click coupling. The structure of all the intermediate and final products was established through NMR spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, gel permeation chromatography, UV?visible spectroscopy and fluorescence spectroscopy. The novel hybrid polymer exhibits an attractive high fluorescence at 494 nm and over a broad range which was a combination of both the fluorescence moieties. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry     

Nanotubes as polymers

In this review, we show that the structure and behavior of single-walled nanotubes (SWNTs) are essentially polymeric; in fact, many have referred to SWNTs as “the ultimate polymer”. The classification of SWNTS as polymers is explored by comparing the structure, properties, phase behavior, rheology, processing, and applications of SWNTs with those of rigid-rod polymers. Special attention is given to research efforts focusing on the use of SWNTs as molecular composites (also termed nanocomposites) with SWNTs as the filler and flexible polymer chains as the host. This perspective of “SWNTs as polymers” allows the methods, applications, and theoretical framework of polymer science to be appropriated and applied to nanotubes.     

Metallopolymers with transition metals in the side-chain by living and controlled polymerization techniques

Work on side-chain transition metal-containing polymers prepared by controlled and living polymerizations is summarized, including living anionic polymerization (LAP), ring-opening metathesis polymerization (ROMP) and controlled radical polymerization (CRP) such as atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP), reversible addition-fragmentation chain transfer polymerization (RAFT), and nitroxide-mediated polymerization (NMP). These polymers include metallocene-containing polymers, ferrocenylsilane polymers with additional metal at the side chain, metal carbonyl complex polymers, and ligated metal complex polymers.