Addition–fragmentation reactions in polymer chemistry

Abstract

Abstract This review outlines the use of addition–fragmentation reactions in modern polymer synthesis and the requirements, addition–fragmentation agents (AFAs) have to meet. There are two important synthetic areas where addition–fragmentation processes occur: in radical chain transfer (AFAs are used as chain transfer agents) and in cationic photo or thermal polymerization (AFAs in conjunction with radical initiators for the production of initiating cations). In order to show good performance, AFAs have to be equipped with functional groups or substituents which either promote radical addition or facilitate the fragmentation of reaction intermediates.