Synthesis of polymer precursors of electroactive materials by SET-LRP

Abstract

The synthesis of electroactive polymer precursors by single electron transfer-living radical polymerisation (SET-LRP) is demonstrated here. Standard SET-LRP conditions are employed for the controlled polymerisation of 2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidin-4-yl methacrylate (TMPM). The controlled behaviour of the polymerisation under these conditions is demonstrated by kinetic experiments. Moreover, the synthesis of functional block copolymers is investigated with 3-azidopropyl methacrylate (AzPMA). The TMPM containing (co)polymers are oxidised to produce electroactive poly(TEMPO methacrylate) (PTMA). The redox behaviour of the PTMA was furthermore evidenced by cyclic voltamperometry. These polymers are promising in the frame of organic radical batteries.