Non-PEG-Derived Polyethers as Solid Supports. 1. Synthesis, Swelling Studies, and Functionalization

Novel non-PEG derived polyether resins, coined SLURPS (superior liquid-uptake resins for polymer-supported synthesis), were synthesized by cationic polymerization of vinyl ethers. A functional resin was prepared with excellent control over loading levels. A sequence of synthetic transformations involving the introduction of a Wang linker followed by Mitsunobu functionalization chemistry and cleavage of the bound substrate proceeded quantitatively. These new polymers combine outstanding swelling performance in a wide range of solvents with high chemical stability and tunable loading levels up to 8.5 mmol/g. This combination of desirable features sets them apart from other polymer supports and, in particular, other polyether resins currently investigated for combinatorial chemistry.