Statistical, Gradient and Segmented Copolymers by Controlled/Living Radical Polymerizations

This review is focused on controlledliving radical polymerization methods forthe preparation of various copolymers. A brief introduction to the subject ofradica... » 

This review is focused on controlledliving radical polymerization methods forthe preparation of various copolymers. A brief introduction to the subject ofradical polymerization and early attempts to control it is followed by adetailed examination of the literautre on controlledliving radicalcopolymerizations from the mid90s until 2001. The topics covered includestatisticalgradient block graft and star copolymers and the polymerizationmethods used to produce them. These copolymers were prepared using three majorcontrolled radical methods either nitroxide mediated polymerization atomtransfer radical polymerization or degenerative transfer and a combination ofpolymerization techniques including transformation chemistry or thesimultaneousdual living polymerizations to achieve the desired chainarchitecture or topology. An evaluation of the current state of the field isalso presented. TOCBackground. Statistical Copolymers. Linear BlockCopolymers. Other Chain Architectures. Overall Summary. «