Development of a High Throughput Methodology of a Mechanoredox Free Radical Polymerization Procedure

Abstract

High-throughput methodologies are widely applied in polymer research because they enable the efficient exploration of large and complex design spaces. These approaches allow researchers to rapidly test and evaluate diverse reaction conditions, formulations, and polymer architectures. However, many existing high-throughput strategies face notable limitations, including a high degree of specialization that restricts broader applicability, low polymer yield that constrains downstream characterization, and reliance on solution-based reactions that may not be suitable for all systems. Ball mill mechanoredox polymerization is a novel radical based polymerization pathway that produces large volumes of polymers and is virtually solvent free, allowing for the access of unique polymer architectures. This workflow offers a way of producing ball mill mechanoredox polymers in a high throughput capacity. This workflow utilized the Science Jubilee automation platform with custom reaction hardware to produce up to 64 formulations at a time. Results from a polymerization campaign show this methods accuracy, precision, and viability to synthesis polymers in a high throughput manner.