Here we report a new experiment involving the synthesis of a macroinitiator and its use in the living synthesis of the diblock copolymer poly(styrene-b-methacrylonitrile). Initially, 1-(1-phenylvinyl)pyrene is prepared from a multi-step synthesis requiring the use a various methodologies, including: proper solvent and reagent preparation, organolithium and organomagnesium chemistry, oxidation, dehydration, and product purification and characterization. It is then used in the synthesis of a terminally functionalized polystyrene oligomer for use as an anionic macroinitiator for the subsequent preparation of poly(styrene-b-methacrylonitrile). This experiment is appropriate for a senior level lab course in advanced organic or polymer chemistry. Students will gain experience in multi-step organic synthesis, product separation and purification, living polymerization, polymer modification, and advanced characterization techniques. In particular, students will learn first-hand how important interactions are across the boundaries between several different disciplines of chemistry.

Synthesis of a macroinitiator and its use in the preparation of poly(styrene-b-methacrylonitrile): An advanced undergraduate laboratory project in polymer chemistry

249th National Meeting (2015)

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