Photochemical C−H Heteroarylation of Low-Density Polyethylene for Enhanced Mechanical Properties

Low-density polyethylene (LDPE) is extensively used in packaging; however, its nonpolar nature constrains its performance in more demanding applications. Herein, we report the direct heteroarylation of LDPE via the Minisci reaction under mild conditions, enabling a straightforward post-polymerization modification strategy. A series of heteroaryl-functionalized LDPEs were prepared with levels of functionalization (LOF) reaching up to 1.9 mol %. Notably, despite this low incorporation, the modified polymers largely retain the integrity of the polyethylene backbone while exhibiting substantially enhanced tensile properties, indicating that the introduced heteroaryl groups promote effective intermolecular interactions. This work provides a simple route for the precise functionalization of polyethylene and establishes a versatile platform for the development of high-performance polyolefin materials.