Ultraviolet-induced controlled radical polymerization using titanium dioxide nanoparticles via the reversible addition–fragmentation chain transfer process

Abstract

Herein, we report the UV-induced controlled radical polymerization facilitated by titanium dioxide nanoparticles and trithiocarbonate derivatives, serving as photocatalysts and chain transfer agents, respectively. The polymerization proceeded through a reversible addition–fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) process. The resulting polymers exhibited well-controlled molecular weights and relatively low polydispersity. Additionally, the chain extension reaction via UV-induced RAFT polymerization using titanium dioxide nanoparticles yielded higher-molecular weight polymer products.