Synthesis of PPP-b-PS block copolymers using a combination of Suzuki-polycondensation and nitroxide-mediated radical polymerization

The synthesis of pi-conjugated Nitroxide-Mediated Radical Polymerization (NMRP)-macroinitiators by Suzuki-polycondensation in a one-step reaction has been investigated using conventional and microwave-heating in presence of a suitable terminating agent. Alkoxyamine-functionalized poly(para-phenylene)s were initially synthesized by Suzuki-polycondensation and then its block copolymer with styrene by NMRP. Molecular weight and molecular weight distribution of the polymers have been determined in SEC-measurements, while end-group determination was performed with MALDI-ToF-MS. Thin-layer-morphologies of the block copolymers were investigated using tapping-mode AFM. (C) 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.