Cu(0)-Mediated Controlled/Living Radical Polymerization: A Tool for Precise Multiblock Copolymer Synthesis

Abstract

In this chapter, we introduce the concept of a highly efficient and versatile one-pot iterative strategy for the synthesis of multiblock copolymers. Critical to this approach is the unprecedented maintenance of end-group fidelity afforded by controlled/living radical polymerization (CLRP) in the presence of zero-valent copper. We have applied this approach to the synthesis of multiblock systems in high yield and purity. To demonstrate the unique utility of this approach for the synthesis of these materials, we have synthesized multiblock copolymers exhibiting a range of block numbers (up to a maximum of ten), and with low (~3-4) and high DPn (>100), with specific examples in linear and star polymers.