Strategies for the Preparation of Phosphorus Janus Dendrimers and Their Properties

Dendrimers, being highly branched monodispersed macromolecules, predominantly exhibit identical terminal functionalities within their structural framework. Nonetheless, there are instances where the presence of two distinct surface functionalities becomes advantageous for the fulfilment of specific properties. To achieve this objective, one approach involves implementing Janus dendrimers, consisting of two dendrimeric wedges terminated by dissimilar functionalities. The prevalent method for creating these structures involves the synthesis of dendrons that possess a core functionality that complements that of a second dendron, facilitating their coupling to generate the desired dendrimers. In this comprehensive review, various techniques employed in the fabrication of phosphorus-based Janus dendrimers are elucidated, displaying the different coupling methodologies employed between the two units. The advantages of phosphorus dendrimers over classic dendrimers will be shown, as the presence of at least one phosphorus atom in each generation allows for the easy monitoring of reactions and the confirmation of purity through a simple technique such as P-31 NMR, as these structures typically exhibit easily interpretable patterns.

Automated summary

Dendrimers are highly branched macromolecules with identical terminal functionalities, but there are cases where having two distinct surface functionalities is advantageous. Janus dendrimers, consisting of two dendrimeric wedges terminated by different functionalities, can be created by synthesizing dendrons with complementary core functionalities. This review discusses various techniques used to fabricate phosphorus-based Janus dendrimers and highlights the advantages of phosphorus dendrimers over classic dendrimers, such as easy monitoring of reactions and purity confirmation through P-31 NMR.