New functional diblock copolymers through radical addition of mercaptans

1,2-Polybutadiene-block-poly(ethylene oxide)s were prepared by anionic polymerization and were subsequently modified by radical addition of W-functional mercaptans (functional groups: carboxylic acid, amine, ethylene glycol, and fluorocarbon). The degree of functionalization of the products at full conversion of double bonds is 60-80%, and the molecular weight distribution is as narrow as that of the precursor polymer. The modified block copolymers are amphiphilic in nature and form complex aggregates in dilute aqueous solution.