Synthesis and functions of optically active helical conjugated polymers

Abstract

This article reviews the secondary structures, properties, and functions of helical polyacetylenes substituted with optically active groups, including cis-stereoregular poly(1-methylpropargyl ester) s, poly(N-alkynylamide)s, and poly(alkynamide)s synthesized by the polymerization using rhodium catalysts. The polymers take tightly twisted cis-cisoidal and loosely twised cis-transoidal helices according to the substituants and media, some of which undergo reversible transformation of helical sense with external stimuli such as temperature and pH. The helical polymers are applicable to chiral recognition materials and catalyts for asymmetric synthesis.