Sequential and one-pot post-polymerization modification reactions of thiolactone-containing polymer brushes

Area of Science:

• Polymer Chemistry
• Materials Science
• Surface Science

Background:

• Thiolactone chemistry is a versatile post-polymerization modification (PPM) strategy for creating multifunctional polymers.
• Developing advanced polymer surfaces with tailored functionalities is crucial for various applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To fabricate ultrathin, multifunctional polymer surfaces using thiolactone chemistry.
• To compare sequential and one-pot modification strategies for polymer brushes.
• To investigate the spatial distribution and conversion of immobilized functional groups.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis of thiolactone-containing polymer brushes via microwave-assisted surface-initiated polymerization.
• Aminolysis and thiol-Michael double modifications using bromobenzyl amine and perfluoro-decyl acrylate.
• Quantitative analysis using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and argon gas cluster ion sputter depth profiling.

Main Results:

• One-pot modifications effectively immobilized amine and acrylate groups within the polymer brush.
• Sequential modifications enabled the creation of multifunctional, micropatterned brush surfaces.
• Both methods allowed for quantitative comparison of functional group immobilization and distribution.

Conclusions:

• Thiolactone chemistry provides a powerful route for creating functional polymer surfaces.
• Sequential modification is suitable for micropatterning, while one-pot modification enhances group immobilization.
• The choice of modification strategy depends on the desired surface functionality and architecture.