Precise synthesis of functional polymers by RAFT polymerization

Abstract

Reversible addition-fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization can be regarded as one of the most useful controlled radical polymerizations, because of its versatility with respect to monomer type, reaction condition, and molecular design. This paper summarizes recent our works on the precise synthesis of functional polymers using RAFT polymerization. In particular, we focus on the synthesis of well-defined amino acid-based polymers, which can be acted as stimuli-responsive polymer and weak polyelectrolyte having optical activity. Design, synthesis, and functions of optoelectronic polymers having various functional moieties, such as carbazole, indole, and anthracene groups, are also described. We also report on the synthesis of these functional polymers having complex architectures, such as block copolymer and star polymer.