Synthesis of Well-Defined Multi-End Functionalized Polymers via Living Anionic Polymerization

Abstract

Numerous applications require specific properties at polymer surfaces that differ from the bulk, while retaining the advantageous properties of the bulk polymer. In this thesis, we describe work aimed at producing a series of multi-end functionalized polystyrene and polyisoprene additives with a wide range of molecular weights, carrying 1 to 3 fluoroalkyl groups that have been prepared by end capping the living chain ends of polymers prepared via anionic polymerization reactions. The resulting polymers have a well-defined structure with interesting surface modifying properties. We have also carried out hydrogenation of end functionalized polyisoprene to form poly(ethylene-alt-propylene) with the same functional group. The resulting polymers have been used as additives in an attempt to render the surface of polymer films hydrophobic/lipophobic and we have characterized these polymer films using static contact angle measurements with water as the main contact fluid. We have systematically studied the effect of additive molecular weight, concentration and annealing conditions on the surface properties. It has been discovered that these additives undergo rapid adsorption to a surface or interface and significantly enhance surface properties. In addition, to support the contact angles results, elastic recoil detection analysis (ERDA) and Rutherford backscattering analysis (RBS) have been carried out to acquire further quantitative evidence of surface segregation.