Carnegie Mellon University

Mihaela C Iovu

Richard D McCullough

Elena E Sheina

Itaru Osaka

Malika Jeffries-EL

Genevieve Sauve

Novel polymer compositions which provide controlled end-group functionalization for polythiophenes including regioregular polythiophenes including alkenyl and alkynyl functionalization. Monocapped polymers are formed and can be converted to block copolymers. Conditions and reagents can be selected to provide more monocapping than dicapping of the polymer. Devices, films, and blends can be prepared.

Monocapped conductive polymers with alkenyl or alkynyl end groups and block copolymers therefrom

Universal Grignard Metathesis (GRIM) reactions which provide access to conjugated polymers by GRIM methods. A method comprising: providing an unsaturated ring compound comprising at least two halogen ring substituents, providing an organomagnesium reagent comprising an organomagnesium component and a metal activation agent, combining the unsaturated ring compound with the reagent to form a second compound by metal-halogen exchange, wherein the metal activation agent activates the metal-halogen exchange, coupling the second compound to itself in an oligomerization or polymerization reaction. Metal activation agent can be lithium chloride. The process is commercially attractive and can be executed in good yields. Polyfluorenes, polypyrroles, and polythiophenes can be prepared for use in OLED, PLED, photovoltaic, transistor, antistatic coatings, and sensor applications.

Universal grignard	 metathesis polymerization

Regioregular poly(3-alkylthiophenes) and other polythiophenes can be prepared by living polymerization which have good solubility, processability and environmental stability. The polymerization method can afford regioregular poly(3-alkylthiophenes) in high yields. Kinetic study of polymerization revealed the living character of this process. The molecular weight of poly(3-alkylthiophenes) is a function of the molar ratio of the monomer to nickel initiator, and conducting polymers with relatively narrow molecular weight distribution (PDI&#x3c;1.5) are now readily available. Sequential monomer addition resulted in new block copolymers containing different poly(3-alkylthiophene) segments, which further confirms the 'livingness' of this system. Other synthetic methods can be used as well to conduct living polymerization. Blends and electronic devices can be prepared.

Living synthesis of conducting polymers including regioregular polymers, polythiophenes, and block copolymers

Metal complexing agents are used to purify polymers including conducting polymers to provide very low metal content. The process comprises precipitating the polymer in solution into a solvent system comprising the metal complexing agent. Very low levels including undetectable levels of metals such as nickel and magnesium can be achieved. High purity polymers are used in electronics and photovoltaic applications.

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Dallas, TX, United States of America

Mihaela C Iovu