Abstract
Recent examples for precise synthesis of multi-block, brush, and star polymers by (living) ring-opening metathesis polymerization (ROMP) using Mo, Ru catalysts have been reviewed. Unique characteristics of the living ROMP initiated by the Mo-alkylidene (so-called Schrock type) complexes, which accomplish a precise control of the block segment as well as an exclusive introduction of functionality at the polymer chain end, provide the synthesis of block copolymers varying different backbones by adopting the “grafting to” or the “grafting from” approach. The technique also demonstrated controlled synthesis of soluble star shape polymers containing functionalities on the surface. The “grafting through” approach (polymerization of macromonomers) by the repetitive ROMP technique by the Mo catalysts offers a precise control of the block segments and the end functionalization. The recent progress using so called 3rd generation Grubbs Ru catalyst also demonstrates controlled syntheses of brush/graft copolymers with high degree of (macro) monomer repeating units. These efforts should introduce promising possibilities for evolution of new advanced materials by precise placement of functionalities/segments.
