ABSTRACT
Design and synthesis of materials with novel properties is becoming an important aspect of polymer chemistry [1, 2]. Quite often, desired properties are not attainable by the properties of a single homopolymer. The synthesis of block structures is one way to adjust properties of polymers. Blocking reactions are generally accomplished in two ways; (1) successive addition of appropriate monomers in living polymerization [3], which allows preparation of block copolymers containing two or more different segments and (2) polymers with functional end groups (telechelics) can be converted to initiating species by external stimulation such as heat, light, or chemical reaction [4, 5]. Alternatively, these polymers, based on the reaction of the functional groups with other suitable low-molar-mass compounds or polymers, can be used in block condensation (Scheme 9.1). In the latter case, the number and the location of a functional group are quite important for the overall structure of block condensate. Polymers must possess exactly two functional end groups to yield polycondensates with high molecular weight and functional end groups located at the end of one chain can undergo similar condensation reactions. In this case, graft copolymers are formed (Scheme 9.2). In addition to their use in block and graft copolymerizations,
9.1 Introduction ....................................................................................................205 9.2 Functionalization Techniques ........................................................................206
