End-group modification of poly(butyl acrylate) prepared by atom transfer radical polymerization: Mechanistic study using gradient polymer elution chromatography

The introduction of a functional group into a poly(butyl acrylate) polymer prepared by copper-mediated atom transfer radical polymerization and the characterization of the prepared polymer by gradient polymer elution chromatography are reported. The bromo end group of the initial polymer can be transformed into a different functional group with several functionalization reactions, including nucleophilic substitution and atom transfer radical addition (ATRA), in combination with comonomers, addition-fragmentation transfer agents, or stable radicals. Several new functionalization agents are reported, including ATRA using 1-(3-hydroxymethyl-phenyl)-pyrrole2,5-dione and trimethyl{1-4-(2-trimethylsiloxyethoxy)]phenylethenyloxy)silane and nucleophilic substitution using 2-mercapto ethanol. The rate constant of the functionalization reaction and the final functionality are determined with gradient polymer elution chromatography, a technique by which qualitative and quantitative information about the conversion can be obtained. Polymers with a functionality greater than 95% are reported. (C) 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.