Multifunctional Polymer Synthesis via Sequential Postpolymerization Modification Using a Single Aldehyde Repeat Unit: Allylation and Orthogonal Esterification and Thiol-ene Reaction

Herein, we present a highly efficient method for synthesizing multifunctional polymers. This method involves the sequential postpolymerization modification (PPM) of a highly reactive aldehyde polymer. We introduce an allylic alcohol functionality into the polymer backbone via Barbier-type allylation, a process facilitated by easy-to-handle indium(0) powder. This step enables the formation of orthogonal pendants, secondary alcohol, and terminal alkene, which can be further functionalized through esterification and thiol-ene click reactions. All of these processes are carried out under mild conditions, ensuring high efficiency and a wide range of functional groups. Our study underscores PPM’s operational simplicity and versatility in developing advanced polymer materials and expanding the scope of multifunctional polymer design.