Controlled polymerization of methyl acrylate in the presence of copper MOF (Basolite®C300): strategy and characterization

The controlled polymerization of methyl acrylate (MA) in the presence of Basolite copper C300 (MOF@Cu) is presented in the present study. MOF@Cu plays a single role, acting as a cocatalyst that is reduced by the copper wire or light (red LED) to produce Cu(I) ions necessary to activate the controlled polymerization. Thus, the polymerization in the presence of Cu(0) wire and MOF@Cu can follow two reaction pathways: SARA-ATRP or SET-LRP. Based on the kinetics investigation, the SET-LRP route is supported by GPC, UV-Vis, and 1 H NMR analyses. The percentage of the living chain (26%) was determined using 1 H NMR. Under red LED irradiation, photoinduced polymerization leads to the formation of copper nanoparticles, as characterized by BFTEM. Also, using the same initiation procedure, an emulsion was obtained directly via polymerization, and the particles were investigated by SEM.