Synthesis of hyperbranched polymers by combination of self-condensing vinyl polymerization and iniferter process

A versatile approach for the synthesis of polystyrene based hyperbranched polymers (hyp-PS) with tunable branching densities by combination of self-condensing vinyl polymerization and iniferter processes is reported. The technique is based on the utilization of a dual functional monomer, 2,2,2-(triphenylethyl)styrene (TPES), that contains both polymerizable and iniferter units. Branching densities of the polymers are regulated depending on the TPES concentration and polymerization time. Moreover, obtained polymers are used as macroiniferter for the copolymerization of a hydrophilic monomer (poly(ethylene glycol) acrylate) to give amphiphilic branched-core star polymers.