Application and development of novel catalysts for Atom Transfer Radical Polymerization (ATRP)

• Applicant: Dr. Kristin Schröder
• Subject Area: Preparatory and Physical Chemistry of Polymers
• Term: from 2011 to 2013
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 201281313

This proposal is focused on the development and application of novel catalysts for atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP). ATRP is a controlled/living radical polymerization process which allows the synthesis of well-defined polymers with pre-determined molecular weights and narrow molecular weight distributions. Polymerization processes of this nature offer access to a broad spectrum of complex polymeric architectures, inaccessible in free radical processes, ranging from stars to block copolymers to brushes. Despite the success of ATRP, this process can be further improved by development of novel ligands and characterization of their corresponding catalysts. New catalyst systems may allow the controlled polymerization of monomers inaccessible to ATRP, including vinyl acetate, and dienes. Fundamental mechanistic studies will be carried out with various ATRP methods to investigate the potential and utility of these novel ligands.

• DFG Programme: Research Fellowships
• International Connection: USA
• Host: Professor Dr. Krzysztof Matyjaszewski