Polythiophene-block-poly(phenyl isocyanide) Copolymers: One-pot Synthesis, Properties and Applications

Conjugated block copolymers have gained increasing interests in recent years. Development of a novel method for facile synthesis of conjugated block copolymers with desired structures and functions is greatly desired. In this mini review, we summarized the recent advances in one-pot synthesis of conjugated block copolymers containing pi-conjugated polythiophene and helical polyisocyanide segments by using a nickel(II) complex as single catalyst. The sequential living polymerization of the two monomers proceeded in a controlled manner, affording expected block copolymers in high yields with controlled molecular weights (M(n)s) and narrow molecular weight distributions (M-w/M(n)s). By using this method, a family of block copolymers with expected structure and tunable compositions can be facilely prepared. Introducing functional groups onto the pendant, these block copolymers can exhibit interesting self-assembly property, tunable light emission and multi-responsiveness.