Allenes have been largely underexplored in the context of polymers, but they hold promise for engendering materials with tunable properties. For example, allenes could be engaged through post-synthetic modification (a powerful strategy for tailoring soft materials). While methods for side-chain functionalizations abound, modifications of backbone structural elements can be difficult to achieve. This challenge arises, in part, from a lack of intrinsically reactive motifs that can be installed in the main chain of a polymer. Incorporating established synthetic handles into polymer architectures is paramount for overcoming this limitation. Allenes are salient examples of moieties that could be leveraged in a wide range of post-synthetic modifications; however, the synthesis of a polyallene has proven elusive. We have established the Skattebøl rearrangement as a reliable method for acessing an array of polyallenes. These materials possess unique optical properties and can be engaged through further post-synthetic modifications. As such, polyallenes could serve as valuable platforms for developing functional soft materials.

Allenes as enabling motifs in soft polymers

ACS Spring 2022

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.