Copper‐mediated controlled radical polymerization in continuous flow processes: Synergy between polymer reaction engineering and innovative chemistry |
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Authors: | Nicky Chan Michael F Cunningham Robin A Hutchinson |
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Institution: | Department of Chemical Engineering, Queen's University, , Kingston, Ontario, Canada, K7L 3N6 |
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Abstract: | Copper(0)‐mediated controlled radical polymerization (CRP), or single‐electron transfer‐living radical polymerization (SET‐LRP) is a robust and dynamic technique that has attracted considerable academic and industrial interest as a synthetic tool for novel value‐added materials. Although SET‐LRP possesses many advantages over other forms of CRP, this novel chemistry still requires concurrent engineering solutions for successful commercial application. In this highlight, the evolution of atom‐transfer radical polymerization chemistry and development in continuous processes is presented, leading to recent research on the use of SET‐LRP in continuous flow tubular reactors. The proofs of concept are reviewed, and remaining challenges and unexplored potential on the use of continuous flow processes with SET‐LRP as a powerful platform for the synthesis of novel polymeric materials are discussed. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2013, 51, 3081–3096 |
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Keywords: | atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) catalysis continuous flow reactors Cu(0) catalyzed CRP kinetics (polym ) process development single electron transfer‐living radical polymerization (SET‐LRP) tubular reactor |
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