Synthesis and characterization of block copolymers with photoclevable junctions

• Applicants: Professor Dr. Jochen Gutmann; Professor Dr. Patrick Théato
• Subject Area: Preparatory and Physical Chemistry of Polymers
• Term: from 2009 to 2014
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 151205020

We will develop synthetic methodologies to incorporate o-nitrobenzyl esters or phenacyl esters as photocleavable junctions in block copolymers. These materials will be prepared using controlled radical polymerizations, employing ATRP macroinitiators or RAFT macro chain transfer agents. We will systematically explore photolysis that lead to rapid, clean and efficient photocleavage in the solution state. With this knowledge for cylindrically microphase separated morphologies in thin films and in the bulk, photocleavage and removal of the minor component by selective solvent extraction will yield nanoporous templates. The knowledge gained in how to generate nanoporous templates or scaffolds will have applications in a number of different scientific fields.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants
• International Connection: USA
• Participating Person: Professor Dr. Edward B. Coughlin