Novel redox polymers and their use as polymeric reagents in organic synthesis

We have synthesized high molecular weight poly(aryl ether)s which contain a stable hindered biphenoxy radical in the backbone of the polymer chain. These high molecular weight biphenoxy radicals on reaction with methylene groups formed insoluble polymers which could not be characterized fully. Lower molecular weight copolymers were prepared which on reaction with molecules containing methylene groups gave soluble polymers with attached ether or acetal groups. Acid cleavage regenerated the original polymer containing hindered biphenol groups along with the corresponding alcohol or aldehyde derived from the original methylene compound.