From UV to NIR: A Full-Spectrum Metal-Free Photocatalyst for Efficient Polymer Synthesis in Aqueous Conditions

Abstract

Photo-mediation offers unparalleled spatiotemporal control over controlled radical polymerizations (CRP). Photo-induced electron/energy transfer reversible addition–fragmentation chain transfer (PET-RAFT) polymerization is particularly versatile owing to its oxygen tolerance and wide range of compatible photocatalysts. In recent years, broadband- and near-infrared (NIR)-mediated polymerizations have been of particular interest owing to their potential for solar-driven chemistry and biomedical applications. In this work, we present the first example of a novel photocatalyst for both full broadband- and NIR-mediated CRP in aqueous conditions. Well-defined polymers were synthesized in water und..