ABSTRACT:This paper describes the first synthesis of a new class of topological macromolecules which we refer to as "starburst polymers." The fundamental building blocks to this new polymer class are referred to as "dendrimers." These dendrimers differ from classical monomers/ oligomers by their extraordinary symmetry, high branching and maximized (telechelic) terminal functionality density. The dendrimers possess "reactive end groups" which allow (a) controlled moelcular weight building (monodispersity), (b) controlled branching (topology), and (c) versatility in design and modification of the terminal end groups. Dendrimer synthesis is accomplished by a variety of strategies involving "time sequenced propagation" techniques. The resulting dendrimers grow in a geometrically progressive fashion as shown: Chemically bridging these dendrimers leads to the new class of macromolecules-"starburst polymers" (e.g.,

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Electrospray ionization mass spectrometry has been demonstrated to be a useful technique for the molecular weight determination of a Starburst polymer. Mass spectra of multiply charged ions are deconvoluted to provide molecular weight information of many components in a non-separated mixture. These data may also be used for determining a polydispersity value for this synthetic polymer system.

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