ABC/BCD polymerization: A self-condensing vinyl and cyclic ester polymerization by combination free radical and ring opening techniques for the preparation of novel graft copolymers

A one-step polymerization technique to branched copolymers based on the combination of `living' ring opening and controlled radical polymerization is presented. The approach, denoted ABC/BCD polymerization combines the self-condensing vinyl polymerization and living polymerization concepts as a route to branched copolymers. The sequential and concurrent polymerization of an ABC monomer with a BCD monomer as a new and versatile concept of branched copolymers is introduced.