Ab-initio cationic polymerisation is a new synthetic technique, allowing functional oligomers of controlled molecular weight distribution to be prepared. NMR spectroscopy has verified that the functional capping groups were in place, which allow subsequent synthetic modification of the polymer's chemical properties.
MALDI-TOF mass spectroscopy showed that the oligomers were regular, with the capping group only at the chain terminus. SEC chromatography showed comparatively narrow molecular weight distribution of the oligomers.
Controlled polymer synthesis by Ab Initio cationic polymerisation
One of the major differences between synthetic polymers and natural macromolecules is the level of control over the molecular architecture. New synthetic techniques that allow us to more precisely control the final structure of the polymer are therefore highly sought-after, as they can offer means for increasing the uniformity and utility of the final product.
References
Weihong Lang and Stephen Rimmer Synthesis of telechelic oligo(isobutyl vinyl ether)s via alkylation of silyl enol ethers by the propagating chain end in an ab initio cationic polymerization Macromol. Rap. Comm. 22 (2001) 194.
This feature is based on work carried out by Dr Stephen Rimmer:
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