Synthesis of Block Copolymers by Combination of Atom Transfer Radical Polymerization and Visible Light‐Induced Free Radical Promoted Cationic Polymerization

Abstract

AbstractA new synthetic approach for the preparation of block copolymers by mechanistic transformation from atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) to visible light‐induced free radical promoted cationic polymerization is described. A series of halide end‐functionalized polystyrenes with different molecular weights synthesized by ATRP were utilized as macro‐coinitiators in dimanganese decacarbonyl [Mn2(CO)10] mediated free radical promoted cationic photopolymerization of cyclohexene oxide or isobutyl vinyl ether. Precursor polymers and corresponding block copolymers were characterized by spectral, chromatographic, and thermal analyses.