Topological Polymer Chemistry in Pursuit of Elusive Polymer Ring Constructions

Abstract

Current challenges and future perspectives of topological polymer chemistry have been reviewed. A variety of novel cyclic and multicyclic macromolecular topologies has now been realized by intriguing synthetic protocols. In particular, the electrostatic polymer self-assembly of telechelic precursors having cyclic ammonium salt groups accompanying polyfunctional carboxylate counteranions has been exploited in dilution to produce topologically significant, non–covalent constructions of a dynamic nature. The subsequent covalent conversion through the ring–opening or through the ring–emitting reaction of cyclic ammonium salt groups by carboxylate counteranions provides cyclic and multicyclic polymer products effectively. Furthermore, the metathesis condensation process with functional cyclic polymer precursors has been demonstrated as a promising synthetic means to construct a variety of complex polymer topologies.