The advantageous use of mediators in the electrosynthesis of poly( p-phenylenevinylene)s

Abstract

Poly( p-phenylenevinylene)s were prepared via controlled potential electrolyses of 1,4-bis(dichloromethyl)arenes in the absence and in the presence of mediators. This enables the use of less negative potentials, leading to higher yields, particularly of the insoluble fractions, i.e., polymers formed with longer chains. The use of less lachromatory and cheaper chlorinated rather than brominated precursors is advantageous.