Functionalized polymers with metal complexing segments: a simple and high-yield entry towards 2,2′:6′,2″-terpyridine-based oligomers

Williamson type ether reactions were utilized for a high yield reaction of 4′-chloro-2,2′:6′,2″-terpyridine with α,ω-dihydroxy-functionalized poly(ethylene oxide) and poly(oxytetramethylene)s to obtain bis(terpyridine)-terminated telechelics. The completeness of the functionalization was proven by NMR spectroscopy, GPC and MALDI-TOF-MS investigations. The addition of transition metal ions resulted in a polyaddition polymerization leading to the formation of extended metallo-supramolecular polymers, as proven by UV/VIS spectroscopy titration experiments.