In response to polymer elongation, certain moieties incorporated in polymer chains can undergo specific, well-defined chemical changes. Currently, the scope of these responses is fairly limited, with demonstrated examples including homolytic scission of weak bonds and pericyclic rearrangements. We have developed two new types of mechanophores. The first is mechanochemically responsive only in the presence of both acidic conditions and mechanical polymer elongation.  We envision this to provide greater spatiotemporal control of triggering mechanochemical responses, with applications to novel drug delivery platforms. We have also developed a mechanophore that forms stronger bonds in response to activation in a process termed force-induced rehybridization. By harnessing the increased linearity associated with polymer elongation, an alkene mechanophore can be guided toward alkyne formation.

Novel responses in polymer mechanochemistry: Dual activation and force-induced rehybridization

244th National Meeting (2012)

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