Influence of support structure on preparation and utilization of polymeric reagents

Polymer bound reagents have become established components of the repertoire of synthetic organic chemists. Recent advances in this field are reviewed with particular attention focused upon the nature of the polymer support. The application of condensation polymers as supports are highlighted. Techniques for chlormethylating polymers containing oxyphenylene repeat units with 1,4-bis [chloromethoxy] butane are presented and the properties of the new supports polymers are described. Aspects of site-site interaction of crosslinked polymer matrices are discussed. The review includes a summary of applications for polymer-bound transition metal catalysts, phase transfer catalysts and organic reagents. Finally, the future of polymeric reagents is examined.