Preparation and functionalization of (vinyl)polystyrene polyHIPE (R) - Short routes to binding functional groups through a dimethylene spacer

This paper describes the preparation and post-functionalization of an emuls ion-derived polymeric foam, called polyHIPE(R), bearing pendant vinyl funct ionalities. The large pores and large channels of polyHIPE allow liquids an d solvents to be driven through the molded monolith at very low pressure. I n the presence of a free-radical initiator, compounds such as HBr and thiol s underwent an anti-Markovnikov addition to the residual vinyl groups. Othe r reactions such as hydroboration with BH3 followed by hydrolysis with H2O2 have also been investigated. In this paper, a comparison between two ways of functionalization has been made: a 'batch' method, corresponding to diff usion of reactants through the pores of small cubes of polymers, and a 'con tinuous flow' method, forcing reactants to flow through the interconnected porous structure by applied low pressure. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science B.V. Al l rights reserved.