Block copolymer synthesis using free-radical polymerization and thiol-maleimide 'click' conjugation

A method of making block copolymers utilizing free-radical polymerization and subsequent polymer conjugation is described. A disulphide functional radical initiator was used to polymerize methacrylic acid and 3-acrylamidophenylboronic acid. After purification, the disulphide bond of the end group was cleaved, revealing a thiol group which was used for subsequent conjugation to a polylactide containing the complementary maleimide functional group. The method is versatile and can be applied to the synthesis of various block copolymers without requiring the use of controlled/living radical polymerization methods.

Automated summary

The method described in the text utilizes free-radical polymerization and subsequent polymer conjugation to make block copolymers. It is versatile, as it can be applied to the synthesis of various block copolymers without requiring controlled/living radical polymerization methods.