Ring-Forming Polymerization toward Perfluorocyclobutyl and Ortho-Diynylarene-Derived Materials: From Synthesis to Practical Applications

Abstract

Many desirable characteristics of polymers arise from the method of polymerization and structural features of their repeat units, which typically are responsible for the polymer’s performance at the cost of processability. While linear alternatives are popular, polymers composed of cyclic repeat units across their backbones have generally been shown to exhibit higher optical transparency, lower water absorption, and higher glass transition temperatures. These specifically include polymers built with either substituted alicyclic structures or aromatic rings, or both. In this review article, we highlight two useful ring-forming polymer groups, perfluorocyclobutyl (PFCB) aryl ether polymers and ortho-diynylarene- (ODA) based thermosets, both demonstrating outstanding thermal stability, chemical resistance, mechanical integrity, and improved processability. Different synthetic routes (with emphasis on ring-forming polymerization) and properties for these polymers are discussed, followed by their relevant applications in a wide range of aspects.

Superhydrophobic/Superoleophilic Surfaces by Electroless Nanoparticle Deposition and Perfluorinated Polymer Modification

“…These results are correlated to a decrease in the F peak and an increase in the O EDX peak, which suggests defluorination (by oxidation and hydrolysis) of loosely bound F atoms during prolonged water immersion. Such a phenomenon for fluorinated polymeric coatings has been observed in the literature. − In addition, the change in shape of the anodic polarization curve after 7 d implies possible breakdown of the passivating film, which causes an increase in charge-transfer activity at the coating–metal interface and a drop of PE % from 90.8 to 87.9%.…”

The potential of additively manufactured membranes for selective separation and capture of CO2

“…[8,23,33] Organic polymeric membranes are easier to fabricate and their high packing densities (i.e., surface area to module volume ratios) make them more attractive compared to inorganic-based membranes. [42] Polymers commonly employed in the fabrication of gas separation membranes include cellulose acetates, [43,44] polyethylene, polypropylene, polysulfones, [30,[45][46][47][48][49][50] fluoropolymers, [51,52] polyamides, and polyimides. [21,[53][54][55][56][57][58][59] Known for their microporous characteristics, polymers of intrinsic microporosity (PIMs) are better suited and more desirable for CO 2 capture applications due to their high permeability.…”

PDMS‐silica composite gas separation membranes by direct ink writing

“…[5][6][7][8][9] Although many materials can be used to fabricate gas separation membranes, polymers are considered among the best candidates mainly due to their ease of processability. 7,8,10,11 Polymers can be processed into film and hollow fiber membranes in their pristine form as blends, composites, or mixed matrices. Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), a silicone-based elastomer, exhibits permeability, and other structural characteristics ideal for catalytic degradation 12 and gas separation applications.…”