Macromolecules of various complex topologies were constructed via a variety of dynamic-covalent bonds, including boronic esters. In one case, an arm-first approach was employed by reacting well-defined boronic acid containing block copolymers with multifunctional 1,2/1,3-diols as crosslinkers. The kinetics of the assembly process were investigated as a function of block copolymer and crosslinker concentrations and temperature. The dynamic-covalent nature of the boronic ester crosslinks allowed the stars to reconfigure their covalent structure in the presence of monofunctional diols that competed for bonding with the boronic acid component. Therefore, the stars could be induced to dissociate via competitive exchange reactions. The star formation-dissociation process was shown to be repeatable over multiple cycles. Stars constructed via other types of dynamic-covalent bonds were also considered.

Dynamic-covalent macromolecular assemblies of organoboron polymers

244th National Meeting (2012)

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