In recent years, atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) is known as a robust reversible-deactivation radical polymerization (RDRP) method in well controlling molecular weight,polydispersity, and high retention of chain-end functionality, as well as facilitating high grafting density on solid surface. However, the multi-scale generalization study of ATRP system for establishing the relationship between structure and property is relative lack.
As well-known, synthesis methodology has great impact on the molecular structure, for example,batch copolymerization leads exclusively to random copolymer, and di-block copolymer can be produced by sequential homo-polymerization.l Meanwhile, semi-batch polymerization can easily be performed to create polymeric materials having a gradient composition.
Our recent researches focus on establishing model for estimating kinetic parameters, optimizing polymerization conditions, and simultaneously tailor-making copolymer composition and properties.2-5 We also have an attempt to complete a chemical product pyramid about the triplet "molecular structure-properties-synthesis methodology" multi-scale study.
In conclusion, our aim is to fabricating a useful product with desired function from individual molecules based on chemical polymerization method and chemical product engineering perspective.It connects the microscopic and macroscopic world and bridges the gap between chemistry and chemical product engineering. The product engineering from polymer chemistry is ongoing in our group.
