Quantitative formation of core cross-linked star polymers via a one-pot two-step single electron transfer-living radical polymerization

A novel and highly efficient one-pot two-step strategy towards core cross-linked star polymers based on single electron transfer-living radical polymerization (SET-LRP) is described. Macroinitiators with high end-group fidelity were generated at high monomer conversions prior to the addition of cross-linkable monomers in the same pot to induce the formation of star polymers. Quantitative (>99%) star formation is achieved without the purification of unreacted monomers or macroinitiators.