Tripodal molecules have a wide range of applications to include biosensors and offer the advantage of tailoring their structural properties to achieve desired funtionality. However, little research has been done to exploit the polymerization potential of these molecules. Currently, our efforts are focused on bis-functionalization of a proposed tripodal molecule that can be readily achieved from commercially-available acrolein and benzylamine. The core structure contains two terminal alcohol groups that can be effectively reacted with perfluorocyclopentene (PFCP) thus setting the stage for step-growth polymerization. By incorporating fluorine into the backbone of the molecule, the solubility and processability will greatly increase and afford the opportunity to develop bulk materials. Moreover, the remaining molecular appendage can be adorned with an azide or alkyne moiety leaving the door open for click-mediated post-polymerization functionalization.

Synthesis and characterization of a perfluorocyclic tripodal polymer

251st National Meeting (2016)

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