Synthesis of novel backbone functional polymers

Abstract

Due to their synthetic versatility, high processability, relatively low material costs, and useful properties, polymers are ubiquitous in modern life, from yoga mats and backpacks to construction materials and medical supplies. In many of these applications, polymers are used as plastics, for their thermal and oxidative stability, and chemical inertness. Over the last few decades, however, there have been many advances in functional polymers: polymers designed to play active roles in a variety of applications, such as stress sensing and targeted drug delivery. This thesis describes the work done in the synthesis, characterization, and use of three different polymers whose functions are derived from the polymer backbone. In Chapter 3, vinyl-addition polynorbornenes are explored for their intrinsic mechanochemical reactivity, a property that is unique to polymers of high molecular weight. In Chapter 4, anionic poly(cyclopentadienylene vinylene)s are explored for their charge transport properties along the polymer backbone (and between them). In Chapter 5, polymers with reversible molecular recognition pairs are explored for the stimuli-responsive folding and unfolding behaviors of their backbones.