Chapter 2 - Polyphosphazenes: macromolecular structures, properties, and their methods of synthesis

Abstract

Polyphosphazenes are synthetic inorganic polymers with a rich chemistry and wide-ranging applications from high-performance elastomers to complex pharmaceutical agents. In this chapter we describe the fundamental chemistry and state-of-the-art methods of synthesis for this unique family of polymers, detailing the latest synthetic methods for their preparation. Modern, controlled macromolecular chemistry allows for the preparation of a range of macromolecular architectures including dendrimers, star branched and bottlebrush polymers, through to block copolymers and self-assembled nanostructures. Furthermore, we seek to impart an understanding of the basic structure–property relationships that allow for the rational design and synthesis of polyphosphazene-based materials. This permits the preparation of materials with a large range of properties, from soft elastomers to stiff materials, from water-soluble polymers to superhydrophobic surfaces. Armed with the advanced synthetic methods and this understanding of the structure–property relationships, this should facilitate synthetic chemists to prepare advanced polyphosphazene-based materials for the innovative applications of the future.