The Polymer Society of Korea

Abstract

The sequence of repeating units along a polymer plays a crucial role in determining material properties. Despite its importance, controlling polymer sequence remains challenging, particularly in polymer upcycling based on post-polymerization modification, where functionalization typically proceeds in a random manner. As a result, upcycling strategies often lack the ability to precisely regulate the spatial distribution of newly introduced functional groups. In this work, we address this limitation by introducing an interaction-driven upcycling strategy that leverages noncovalent catalyst–polymer interactions. By systematically varying the substituents on (thio)urea-based organocatalysts, the binding affinity between the catalyst and poly(methyl acrylate) can be tuned, enabling control over the extent and distribution of transesterification along the polymer chain. Through this approach, we aim to regulate the sequence of the modified polymers during upcycling