Novel functional 1D and 2D conjugated polymers: Design, synthesis and characterization

Abstract

Design and characterization of novel conjugated polymers are of great importance in understanding the intrinsic properties to realize the practical applications in many aspects. Among the various conjugated polymers, poly(p-phenylene)s (PPPs) and its derivatives are of considerable interests due to their solvent tractability, high thermal and chemical stabilities, high quantum yield and versatile synthetic strategies. Our efforts focused on investigating the structure-property relations of rationally designed PPPs, seeking the potential sensor and biological applications of water soluble PPPs. Continuous endeavor to chemical modification of PPPs involved an introduction of conjugated side chain onto PPP backbone, with specific highlights of crystalline nature, aggregation phenomenon, unique photophysical and self-assembly properties arisen from extended conjugation and strong O -O interaction. Structure-property relations were further explored in cross-conjugated cruciform system and preliminary work was carried out on cross conjugated polyphenols for antioxidant and toxicity studies.