π-Conjugated polymers (CPs) represent a promising technology for electronic applications where weight and flexibility are important. CPs are commonly synthesized by Pd- or Ni-catalyzed polycondensation reactions, and many high-performance polymers are based on organotin reagents. Polymerization based on C–H activation removes the need for tin, but is still based on Pd catalysis and is limited to substrates that can undergo direct arylation. We have discovered a mechanistically distinct approach to the synthesis of CPs based on the catalyst-free photopolymerization of Grignard monomers. This reaction displays high efficiency for n-type and donor-acceptor alternating copolymers. I will discuss our studies on the optimization, scope, and mechanism of this polymerization.

Transition-metal-free photopolymerization of pi-conjugated polymers

2019 Fall National Meeting

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