RAFT-synthesized polymers are typically colored and malodorous due to the presence of the sulfur-based RAFT end-group(s). In principle, RAFT end-groups can be removed by treating molecularly-dissolved copolymer chains with excess free radical initiators, amines or oxidants.1,2 Herein we report a convenient method for the removal of RAFT end-groups from aqueous dispersions of diblock copolymer nano-objects using H2O2. This oxidant is relatively cheap, has minimal impact on the copolymer morphology and produces benign side-products that can be readily removed via dialysis. We investigate the efficiency of end-group removal for various diblock copolymer nano-objects prepared with either dithiobenzoate- or trithiocarbonate-based RAFT chain transfer agents. The advantage of using UV GPC rather than UV spectroscopy is demonstrated for assessing the kinetics and extent of end-group removal.3

H2O2 enables convenient removal of RAFT end-groups from block copolymer nano-objects prepared via polymerization-induced self-assembly in water

254th National Meeting (2017)

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