A simple method to generate side-chain derivatives of regioregular polythiophene via the GRIM metathesis and post-polymerization functionalization

Regioregular poly(3-bromohexylthiophenes) have been synthesized via the GRIM method in high yield. Functionalization of these polymers with various groups afforded poly(3-alkylthiophenes) bearing 6-carboxylic acid, 6-amine, or 6-thiol functionalities. Analytical data for all polymers are consistent with quantitative functional group substitution.