Issue 53, 2023

Step-growth polymerization by the RAFT process

Abstract

Reversible Addition-Fragmentation Chain Transfer (RAFT) step-growth polymerization is an emerging method that synergistically combines the benefits of RAFT polymerization (functional group and user-friendly nature) and step-growth polymerization (versatility of the polymer backbone). This new polymerization method is generally achieved by using bifunctional reagents of monomer and Chain Transfer Agent (CTA), that efficiently yield Single Monomer Unit Insertion (SUMI) adducts under stoichiometrically balanced conditions. This review covers a brief history of the RAFT-SUMI process and its transformation into RAFT step-growth polymerization, followed by a comprehensive discussion of various RAFT step-growth systems. Furthermore, characterizing the molecular weight evolution of step-growth polymerization is elaborated based on the Flory model. Finally, a formula is introduced to describe the efficiency of the RAFT-SUMI process, assuming rapid chain transfer equilibrium. Examples of reported RAFT step-growth and SUMI systems are then categorized based on the driving force.

Graphical abstract: Step-growth polymerization by the RAFT process

Article information

Article type
Feature Article
Submitted
04 Mar 2023
Accepted
24 May 2023
First published
24 May 2023

Chem. Commun., 2023,59, 8168-8189

Author version available

Step-growth polymerization by the RAFT process

J. Tanaka, J. Li, S. M. Clouthier and W. You, Chem. Commun., 2023, 59, 8168 DOI: 10.1039/D3CC01087B

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