Block copolymers derived from engineering thermoplastics provide high chemical and thermal stability and good mechanical properties as well as micro-phase separated morphologies that can significantly enhance material properties. Synthesis of block copolymers is complex, often involving inert conditions, highly controlled reaction sequencing, specialized initiators, and high purity reagents. Our recent exploration of post polymerization functionalization in the gel state led to the discovery of suitable gelation conditions of PEKK, allowing for functionalization in the gel state. Post-polymerization functionalization of PEKK in the gel state provides an efficient way to create blocky copolymers of PEKK which may provide an enhanced alternative copolymer for improved water filtration, fuel cell membranes, or blend compatibilization. We have postulated that the block lengths may be correlated with the thickness of the lamella in the semi-crystalline gels. Isothermal gelation of PEKK at varying temperatures and from various gelation solvents is hypothesized to provide a range of lamellar thicknesses thus providing a way to control thickness and tailor the lengths of blocky functionalized systems. With these new PEKK gels we are exploring a range of post polymerization functionalization chemistries including bromination, sulfonation, amination, and reactions thereof. Characterization of the new gel morphologies has been achieved using small angle x-ray scattering, wide angle x-ray diffraction, and scanning electron microscopy. Analysis of the crystallization kinetics of PEKK after post polymerization functionalization in the blocky and random state has been achieved using Flash DSC.

Morphological control of poly(ether ketone ketone) as a means to tailor blocky functionalization in the gel state

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