Controlled radical copolymerization of multivinyl crosslinkers: a robust route to functional branched macromolecules

Controlled radical polymerization (CRP) has both revolutionized the synthesis of linear polymers and enabled unprecedented topological complexity. While the synthesis of many polymeric architectures requires careful planning and specialized precursors, branched macromolecules such as segmented hyperbranched polymers (SHPs), knotted polymers, core‐crosslinked stars (CCSs), and more can be synthesized through the copolymerization of vinyl monomers and divinyl crosslinkers in only a few steps. In the nearly two decades since its discovery, this strategy has helped elucidate the fundamental polymerization behavior of crosslinkers and also yielded a variety of functional and stimuli‐responsive materials. The purpose of this mini‐review is to therefore overview critical fundamental aspects of CRP of crosslinkers and materials derived therefrom. The process by which both SHPs and CCS polymers are synthesized, the effect of key reaction parameters and intriguing recent advances are described with the intent of both educating new researchers and inspiring new directions in this area. © 2020 Society of Industrial Chemistry     

Synthesis and characterization of hyperbranched azobenzene-containing polymers via self-condensing atom transfer radical polymerization and copolymerization

We report on the synthesis of an azobenzene-containing inimer 6-{4-[4-(2-(2-bromoisobutyryloxy)hexyloxy)phenylazo]phenoxy}hexyl methacrylate (I) and used it to prepare hyperbranched homopolymer and copolymers by self-condensing vinyl polymerization (SCVP) and copolymerization (SCVCP) with its precursor 6-{4-[4-(6-hydroxyhexyloxy)phenylazo]phenoxy}hexyl methacrylate (M) using atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP). Depending on the comonomer ratio, γ=[M]₀/[I]₀, branched polymethacrylates with number-average weights between 8000 and 20,000 and degree of branching (DB) between 0.08 and 0.49 were obtained by SCVCP, as evidenced by GPC and ¹H NMR analysis. In addition, the photochemical properties of the polymers were also studied by UV-vis spectra and found the structure of polymers affect obviously the trans-cis isomerization properties of the branched polymers.     

原子转移自由基聚合最新研究进展

概述了原子转移自由基聚合（ATRP）在引发体系、反应温度、反应介质、实施方法等方面的进展；介绍了3种不同催化剂脱除技术；结合最新的研究成果，着重论述了ATRP在进行聚合物分子设计，制备窄分子量分布聚合物、无规、梯度和交替共聚物，嵌段共聚物，末端官能团聚合物，接枝和梳状聚合物，星型及高支化聚合物等方面的应用。     

Acetylenes with multiple triple bonds: A group of versatile An-type building blocks for the construction of functional hyperbranched polymers

AB_n-type monomers have been widely used for the synthesis of hyperbranched polymers. These monomers, however, suffer from the problems associated with the tendency of their mutually reactive A and B functional groups toward self-oligomerization. We have explored the possibility of synthesizing hyperbranched polymers using A_n-type monomers, which are stable and easy to prepare and handle, with some being even commercially available. In particular, we have tried to open new synthetic routes to hyperbranched polymers using diynes and triynes as monomers. We have developed metallic [TaBr₅, Cp^∗Ru(PPh₃)₂Cl, etc.] and nonmetallic catalysts (piperidine, DMF, etc.) for polycyclotrimerization, polycycloaddition and polycoupling of the acetylenic monomers. We have synthesized a variety of new hyperbranched polymers including polyarylenes, polytriazoles and polydiynes with high molecular weights and excellent solubility in high yields. The polymers exhibit an array of functional properties such as sensitive photonic response, high light refractivity, large optical nonlinearity, high thermal stability, strong optical limiting power and unusual aggregation-enhanced light emission. Utilizing these unique properties, we succeeded in generating fluorescent images, honeycomb patterns, polymer nanotubes, ferromagnetic ceramics, and nanoparticle catalysts.     

Solid-state polycondensation of natural aldopentoses and 6-deoxyaldohexoses. Facile preparation of highly branched polysaccharide

Solid-state polycondensation of natural aldopentoses and 6-deoxyaldohexoses was found to take place in the presence of H₃PO₄ (5 mol%) at 100-110 °C under a N₂ flow, giving highly branched polysaccharide (Conv. 47-81%, M_w=2700-12?000, M_n=1400-2900); the reaction mixtures were powdery throughout the polymerization. The product polysaccharide was per-O-methylated and subjected to the structure analyses. The acid-hydrolysis, which gave a variety of the partially O-methylated monosaccharides, suggested that the product polysaccharides proved to have highly branched structures consisting of both furanose and pyranose units. MALDI-TOF mass analysis revealed that the 1,4-anhydride terminal unit was formed and participated to the polymerization.     

One-pot synthesis of hyperbranched polymers using small molecule and macro RAFT inimers

Two novel RAFT inimers, small molecule inimer 2-(methacryloyloxy)ethyl 4-cyano-4-(phenylcarbonothioylthio)pentanoate (MAE-CPP) and macro inimer PMMA-MAE-CPP were synthesized and used to prepare hyperbranched polymers via RAFT polymerization without the use of a divinyl cross-linker. The hyperbranched polymers synthesized included copolymers of MAE-CPP with styrene, copolymers of the macro inimer PMMA-MAE-CPP with styrene and the homopolymerization product of the macro inimer PMMA-MAE-CPP. The spectroscopic characteristics and polymerization kinetics of these RAFT polymers obtained under different polymerization conditions were systematically studied and the results compared with those obtained from the corresponding linear RAFT polymerizations as well as from hyperbranched polymerizations performed in the presence of a divinyl cross-linker which are reported in literature. The RAFT methodology reported here for the preparation of hyperbranched polymers is simpler than those reported previously using a divinyl cross-linker and provides good control over the hyperbranched polymers without the formation of insoluble gels.     

Design,synthesis and polymerization of highly branched pseudodendrimers through tandem reactions

BACKGROUND: Pseudodendrimers are hyperbranched polymers which are isomeric with dendrimers, that is, each repeat unit is either fully reacted or only singly reacted. The careful design of an ABB′ monomer leads to higher branching by virtue of tandem reactions that increase the reactivity of linear units during polymerization, leading to fully reacted repeat units. The resulting polymers are predicted to be very highly branched, and in the optimum case, pseudodendrimers. RESULTS: Our work shows that 6‐amino‐3‐bromophthalide leads to a highly branched polymer via bromohydrin decomposition during polymerization, giving polymers of M? = of 3000 and a polydispersity index of 1.03. Our findings indicate a degree of branching of 0.84. The synthesis of similar polymers using different techniques confirms our proposed intermediate. CONCLUSION: We have demonstrated a new class of hyperbranched polymers which are highly branched, and may be considered pseudodendrimers. Copyright © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry     

Synthesis of hyperbranched polymers via a facile self-condensing vinyl polymerization system - Glycidyl methacrylate/Cp2TiCl2/Zn

A facile self-condensing vinyl polymerization (SCVP) system, the combination of glycidyl methacrylate, Cp₂TiCl₂ and Zn, has been firstly used to prepare novel hyperbranched polymers, consisting of vinyl polymers as the backbone, and cyclic ester polymers (poly(?-caprolactone) or poly(l-lactide)) as the side chains. The polymerizations are initiated by the epoxide radical ring-opening catalyzed by Cp₂Ti(III)Cl which is generated in situ via the reaction of Cp₂TiCl₂ with Zn. The key to success is that the polymerizations can proceed concurrently via two dissimilar chemistries possessing the opposite active initiating species, including ring-opening polymerization (ROP) and controlled/living radical polymerization (CRP). We have demonstrated that this facile one-step polymerization technique can be applied successfully to prepare highly branched polymers with a multiplicity of end reactive functionalities including Ti alkoxide, hydroxyl and vinyl functional groups.     

Synthesis of low molecular weight polyethylenes and polyethylene mimics with controlled chain structures

The controlled synthesis of narrowly distributed low molecular weight polymers with functionalization possibilities is of great industrial interests. Although living polymerization allows for control over polymer architecture, the production of low molecular weight polymers with low polydispersities via living polymerization systems is challenged by the use of large amounts of catalysts and broadening in molecular weight distribution. This review addresses the synthesis of narrowly distributed, functional, low molecular weight polyethylene and polyethylene mimics. The review is structured for quick identification of relevant systems for the production of specific polymer architectures with specific cost, efficiency, and safety concerns.     

Synthesis and characterization of branched polymers by a free radical approach using a novel ‘macroiniferter’

Free radical bulk polymerization of styrene and methyl methacrylate (MMA) was carried out using a novel ‘macroiniferter’ which resulted in branched polymers with relatively narrow molecular weight distribution. This approach involving the novel macroiniferter; poly[3-(t-butylperoxy)propyl disulfide] (PBPPDS) that has side chain peroxide groups and main chain disulfide linkages was developed to prepare soluble branched polymers as well as to control the extent of branching in vinyl polymers synthesized via a free radical route. The synthesis, characterization and thermal degradation studies of PBPPDS are reported here for the first time. The resulting polystyrene (PS) and poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) polymers were characterized using gel permeation chromatography (GPC), intrinsic viscosity [η] measurements and the degree of branching was studied by the determination of g′ factor.     

Branched aliphatic polyesters by ring-opening (co)polymerization

The rapid development of biodegradable and biocompatible materials for biomedical applications is reflected in the search for new methods for aliphatic polyester modification applicable in this field. One possible approach is modification by changes to the polymer topology.This review covers the main methods of synthesis of branched aliphatic biodegradable and biocompatible (co)polyesters, where the ring-opening polymerization (ROP) of cyclic esters or cyclic carbonates is the leading process. First, literature examples of ring-opening multibranching polymerization (ROMBP) of AB₂-type hydroxyl-substituted cyclic lactones, lactides and carbonates are cited followed by the presentation of the application of AB-type cyclic esters and additionally AB₂ cyclic ethers or esters as “branching monomers” for the synthesis of branched polyesters based on polycaprolactone (PCL), polylactide (PLA) and polyglycolide (PGA). In the following part, methods involving the combination of the ROP of AB-type cyclic esters and condensation processes leading to branched structures are summarized. Other related strategies leading to “dendri-star” or “core–shell” copolyesters are also discussed. Several examples of approaches to PCL and PLA graft copolymer syntheses are also shown. The advantages and disadvantages of the presented methodologies of branched polyester synthesis are highlighted. Finally, the influence of the branched structure on the properties of the presented class of polyesters, important from the application point of view, is considered.     

Core-shell polyacrylate and polystyrene-block-polyacrylate stars

The polymerization of p-(iodomethyl)styrene (PIMS) yields well-defined branched polymers with reactive iodomethyl groups. The branched poly[p-(iodomethyl)styrene] was used as the transfer agent in the iodine mediated radical polymerization of vinyl monomers. The polymerization proceeds in a controlled way and yields polystyrene and poly(t-butyl acrylate) star polymers with reactive groups at the end of their arms. Polymers so obtained were also used to prepare stars with block copolymer arms: polystyrene-block-poly(t-butyl acrylate). The characterization of star structures was performed by NMR and gel permeation chromatography with absolute molar mass detection (MALLS). Preliminary characterization of the thermal properties of these novel materials is reported.     

Synthesis of well‐defined dendritic hyperbranched polymers by iterative methodologies using living/controlled polymerizations

This review presents firstly the synthesis of various dendritic hyperbranched polymers with well‐defined structures by generation‐based growth methodologies using living/controlled polymerization. Secondly, the synthesis of dendritic hyperbranched poly(methyl methacrylate)s (PMMAs) and their functionalized block copolymers using a novel iterative methodology is described. The methodology involves a two‐reaction sequence in each iterative process: (a) a linking reaction of α‐functionalized living anionic PMMA with tert‐butyldimethylsilyloxymethylphenyl (SMP) groups with benzyl bromide (BnBr)‐chain‐end‐functionalized polymer and (b) a transformation reaction of the SMP groups into BnBr functions. This reaction sequence is repeated several times to construct high‐generation (maximum seventh generation) dendritic hyperbranched polymers. Similar branched architectural block copolymers have also been synthesized by the same iterative methodology using other α‐functionalized living anionic polymers. Surface structures of the resulting dendritic hyperbranched block copolymers composed of PMMA and poly(2‐(perfluorobutyl)ethyl methacrylate) segments have been characterized using X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy and contact angle measurements. Solution behaviors of dendritic hyperbranched PMMAs with different generations and branch densities are discussed based on their intrinsic viscosities, g′ values and R_h values. Copyright © 2007 Society of Chemical Industry     

Synthesis,properties, and practical application of hyperbranched polymers

The methods of synthesis of hyperbranched polymers are considered and systematized with main attention focused on such modern and promising procedures of crosslinking free-radical polymerization as living chain and intense chain transfer regimes. The synthetic approach to hyperbranched polymers via free-radical oxidative polymerization is the first to be put forth. The main problems concerning these polymers are formulated, and the recent advances in this field are generalized and elucidated.     

Update and challenges in organo-mediated polymerization reactions

Organocatalysis has become a very powerful tool for precision macromolecular chemistry, as judged by the number of articles published in this field in the past decade. A variety of small organic molecules, including Brønsted/Lewis bases and acids, based on amines, phosphines or carbenes, but also on bi-component systems, have been employed as a means to catalyze the polymerization of miscellaneous monomers. Not only can organocatalysts be employed to promote the ring-opening polymerization of various heterocyclics (e.g. lactones, lactide, cyclic carbonates, epoxides, lactams, cyclocarbosiloxanes), but some of them also allow activating vinylic monomers such as (meth)acrylics, or triggering the step-growth polymerization of monomers such as diisocyanates and diols for polyurethane synthesis. The reduced toxicity of organocatalysts in comparison to their metallic counterparts is also driving their development in some sensitive applications, such as biomedical or microelectronics. Overall, organocatalysts display specific monomer activation modes, thereby providing a unique opportunity to control the polymerization of various functional monomers, under mild conditions. This review article focuses on advances of the past 4 years (>150 publications) in polymerization reactions utilizing small organic molecules either as direct initiators or as true catalysts, with a special emphasis on monomer activation modes, as well as polymerization mechanism aspects.     

多糖的酶法合成及其过程强化

多糖的酶法合成与过程调控是生物工程及药物开发领域的研究热点。以同多糖、杂多糖和多糖复合物等为代表的多糖类物质的酶法合成技术开发受到广泛关注,多糖的酶法合成以其高度区域选择性和立体选择性、酶可重复利用且环境友好无污染等优点,开始从实验室进入产业领域。酶法合成过程的强化是其产业化应用的关键,通过合成酶固定化、酶的定向变异、化学法与酶法结合等途径可以有效解决酶法合成目前存在的合成酶制备困难、合成反应复杂且产物相对分子质量分布难以控制等不足。酶法合成将成为功能性多糖及糖类聚合物研发与制备的有效途径。     

Aliphatic hyperbranched polyesters based on 2,2-bis(methylol)propionic acid—Determination of structure, solution and bulk properties

Due to their highly branched structure and the large number of functional groups hyperbranched polymers possess unique properties that make them interesting for uses in a wide variety of applications. Some of the most widely investigated hyperbranched polymers are the polyesters based on 2,2-bis(methylol)propionic acid. In this paper we present the results of characterization studies of hyperbranched polyesters based on 2,2-bis(methylol)propionic acid which show that they are very complex products with a multidimensional distribution of various properties. The influence of the synthesis conditions on the structure and molar-mass characteristics of hyperbranched polyesters as well as the findings that allow a thorough understanding of the structure-property relationships are reviewed in detail.     

Macromolecular architectures by living and controlled/living polymerizations

The discovery of living anionic polymerization by Szwarc 50 years ago opened the way to the synthesis of model polymers. This ground-breaking discovery inspired many researchers to develop controlled/living routes for a plethora of monomers including those not compatible with anionic polymerization. These methods and their combinations serve as an arsenal for the synthesis of well-defined polymeric materials with predetermined properties and a rich variety of applications. A few representative examples of living and controlled/living methodologies for the synthesis of polymers with different macromolecular architectures are presented in this review.     

Hyperbranched polymers from divinylbenzene and 1,3-diisopropenylbenzene through anionic self-condensing vinyl polymerization

Hyperbranched polymers were synthesized using anionic self-condensing vinyl polymerization (ASCVP) by forming ‘inimer’ (initiator within a monomer) in situ from divinylbenzene (DVB) and 1,3-diisopropenylbenzene (DIPB) using anionic initiators in THF at −40 °C. The reaction of equimolar amounts of DVB and nBuLi results in the formation of hyperbranched poly(divinylbenzene) through self-condensing vinyl polymerization (SCVP). The hyperbranched polymers were invariably contaminated with small amount of gel (<15%). No gelation was observed when using DIBP with anionic initiators. The presence of monomer-polymer equilibrium in the SCVP of DIPB restricts the growth of hyperbranched poly(DIPB). The inimer synthesized from DIPB at 35 °C undergoes intermolecular self-condensation to different extent depending on the nature of anionic initiator at −40 °C. The molecular weight of the hyperbranched polymers was higher when DPHLi was used as initiator. A small amount of styrene ([styrene]/[Li⁺]=1) was used to promote the chain growth by inducing cross-over reaction with styrene, and subsequent reaction of styryl anion with isopropenyl groups of inimer/hyperbranched oligomer. The hyperbranched polymers were soluble in organic solvents and exhibited broad molecular weight distribution (2<M_w/M_n<17).     

Synthesis and characterization of star-like microgels by one-pot free radical polymerization

A one-pot free radical polymerization process was used to prepare methyl acrylate/ethylene glycol dimethacrylate (MA/EGDMA) and methyl methacrylate/ethylene glycol dimethacrylate (MMA/EGDMA) polymers. The role of monomer and crosslinker reactivity ratios in producing different network structures was demonstrated. While both systems produced branched polymers that exhibited low intrinsic viscosities with little variation across a wide range of molecular weights, the star-like microgels formed between a less reactive monomer (MA) with a more reactive crosslinker (EGDMA) gave lower bulk solution viscosities than the more statistical polymers formed between similarly reactive monomers and crosslinkers (MMA and EGDMA). This paper presented a simple and cost-effective synthetic route for the production of polymers with high molecular weight and low viscosity with considerable potential for industrial-scale processing.