Poly(ionic liquid) Complex with Spontaneous Micro-/Mesoporosity: Template-Free Synthesis and Application as Catalyst Support

A facile, template-free synthetic route is reported toward poly(ionic liquid) complexes (PILCs) which for the first time exhibit stable micro-/mesoporous structure. This is accomplished via in situ ionic complexation between imidazolium-based PILs and poly(acrylic acid) in various alkaline organic solvents. The PILC can be highly loaded with copper salts and can be used as a catalytic support for effective aerobic oxidation of activated hydrocarbons under mild conditions.