Probing chain-end functionalization reactions in living anionic polymerization via matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry

Matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization (MALDI) time-of-flight (TOF) mass spectrometry (MS) is applied to examine the products arising upon the preparation of chain-end functional polymers via living anionic polymerization techniques. Both post-polymerization functionalizations as well as the use of functionalized initiators are investigated. MALDI-TOF MS is shown to be a sensitive probe for the qualitative analysis of the major and minor oligomers from novel functionalization reactions whose mechanisms are not yet well established. The method is particularly valuable for the identification of the end groups of the minor, and often unexpected, distributions that may be undetectable by other analytical means. Complete characterization of all oligomers generated during functionalization reactions provides an essential tool to the synthetic chemist for understanding the corresponding mechanisms. This insight is necessary for selecting alternative routes or making modifications to the reaction conditions. It is demonstrated that MALDl-TOF MS can convey quantitative information about the yields of the chain-end groups introduced during functionalization. From the cases presented it is evident that post-polymerization reactions allow for better control of chain-end functionality and molecular weight than functionalization with the limited number of currently available protected functionalized initiators. (C) 2004 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.