Activators regenerated by electron transfer for atom-transfer radical polymerization of (meth)acrylates and related block copolymers

Abstract

(Chemical Equation Presented) Staying active: The title method allows continuous and controlled polymerization with significantly less Cu catalyst than is required for conventional atom-transfer radical polymerization (as low as 10-3 mol % vs. monomer). The CuI activator is constantly regenerated by a reducing agent, which compensates for any loss of CuI as a result of radical termination reactions (see scheme). © 2006 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA.