Porphyrin-containing photosensitizer obtained via controlled radical polymerization

Abstract

Block amphiphilic copolymer, poly(sodium styrenesulfonate-block-5-(4- acryloyloxyphenyl)-10,15,20-tritolylporphyrin) (PSSS-block-Po) was synthesized by nitroxide-mediated controlled radical polymerization. The polymer is soluble in water and can absorb light in the visible region. The absorbed energy migrates between the porphyrin chromophores. The polymer chains form nanospheres in aqueous solution. Their interiors are highly hydrophobic and can effectively solubilize the large hydrophobic molecules of the various organic compounds (pyrene, azulene, rubrene). The polymer photosensitizes oxidation of organic compounds via photoinduced electron transfer and/or via formation of singlet oxygen. The effect of the architecture, chain properties and Po content on the photochemical properties of the porphyrin-containing photosensitizers was also discussed. © 2011 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.