Development of Photoinitiated Polymer Conjugation Reactions based on [2+2] Cycloadditions of Functionalized Polymers

Abstract

Modern synthetic photochemistry was developed in the middle of the last century. Mainly academics show interest in the field, particularly in the preparation of organic compounds.170,171 Photochemistry has many advantages like spatial control. Reactions often require no further reagents than the compounds themselves and the solvents. In downstream processes, the product can be purified if necessary by conventional means. Up to now, only few research work was done by polymer chemists testing the utility of photochemistry for polymer modification. The here presented dissertation focused on the research of polymer modification. Photochemistry, mainly [2+2] cycloaddition was tested for its scope to modify polymer end groups, surfaces and particles. The research work consisted of two main tasks: 1. To search for and subsequently optimize an adequate photoreaction with high yields, high reaction rates, and functional group tolerance. 2. To improve this reaction by testing several photo-reactors and comparing different reactor techniques, i.e. batch vs. continuous flow mode.