Synthesis of PDMS/PEG graft-like and block copolymers via industrially relevant reverse iodine transfer polymerization

Abstract

Advanced polymer structures are gaining traction in the coatings industry where they may, for instance, give rise to antifouling and anti-icing surfaces. With a focus on industrial feasibility, a series of copolymers from poly(dimethylsiloxane) monomethacrylate (PDMSMA), methoxy poly(ethylene glycol) monomethacrylate (MPEGMA) and methyl methacrylate (MMA) were prepared via reverse iodine transfer polymerization (RITP) and reversible complexation mediated polymerization (RCMP). Using inexpensive materials and synthesis approaches scalable for larger industrial quantities, a variety of (amphiphilic) copolymers and block copolymers were prepared. Compared to semi-batch free-radical polymerization (FRP), the RITP/RCMP approaches resulted in higher conversions of the macromonomers, lower polymer dispersities, allowed synthesis of block copolymers, as well as being simpler than most other common RDRP techniques.