Mechanochemical Post-Polymerization Modification: Solvent-Free Solid-State Synthesis of Functional Polymers

Mechanochemical postpolymerization modification is reported herein. The fast and efficient synthesis of a library of macromolecules with functional diversity and structural uniformity was realized without a solvent by means of a high speed ball-milling technique. A series of polymers prepared from 4-vinylbenzaldehyde (4-VBA) underwent solid-state Schiff base formations with a series of amines and amine derivatives. The efficient mixing and energy delivery provided by the collisions between balls not only promoted rapid imine formation but also eliminated the need for a chemical solvent, which is highly desirable for green chemical synthesis.