A copper-based reverse ATRP process for the living radical polymerization of methyl methacrylate

The reverse atom transfer radical polymerization (RATRP) technique using Cu Cl2/bipyridine (bipy) complex as a catalyst was applied to the living radic al polymerization of methyl methacrylate (MMA). A hexa-substituted ethane t hermal iniferter, diethyl 2,3-dicyano-2,3-diphenylsuccinate (DCDPS), was us ed as the initiator in this copper-based reverse ATRP initiation system. Th e reversible dissociation nature of DCDPS gives a more suitable amount of p rimary radical than formerly used conventional initiators, such as AIBN. Hi gh molecular weight and narrow molecular weight distribution (M-w/M-n appro ximate to 1.20) of the resulting PMMA was obtained in bulk and in solution polymerization at 85 degreesC. End-group analysis result by H-1-NMR spectro scopy shows that the polymer obtained is omega -functionalized by a chlorin e group, which can be used as macroinitiator for chain extension and block copolymerization with a conventional ATRP catalyst. (C) 2001 John Wiley & S ons, Inc.