RAFT Emulsion Polymerization for (Multi)block Copolymer Synthesis: Overcoming the Constraints of Monomer Order

Synthesis of (multi)block copolymers using reversible addition–fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization generally suffers from the limitation that order blocks must be considered. Herein, syntheses block by RAFT trithiocarbonate species are conducted as solution, miniemulsion, and emulsion polymerizations to demonstrate issue monomer for styrene butyl methacrylate can largely overcome in under carefully chosen conditions. The presence droplets polymerization—in addition polymer particles constitute locus polymerization—leads a reduction ratio end groups at polymerization. Consequently, fragmentation adduct radical “backward” (“wrong”) direction is associated with fewer additions, thus minimizing impact this undesired kinetic event. It demonstrated exploited prepare an alternating pentablock copolymer composed methacrylates (with 10 mol % styrene) without consideration order, thereby significantly broadening scope multiblock synthesis.