Abstract: Universal Grignard Metathesis (GRIM) reactions which provide access to conjugated polymers by GRIM methods. A method comprising: providing an unsaturated ring compound comprising at least two halogen ring substituents, providing an organomagnesium reagent comprising an organomagnesium component and a metal activation agent, combining the unsaturated ring compound with the reagent to form a second compound by metal-halogen exchange, wherein the metal activation agent activates the metal-halogen exchange, coupling the second compound to itself in an oligomerization or polymerization reaction. Metal activation agent can be lithium chloride. The process is commercially attractive and can be executed in good yields. Polyfluorenes, polypyrroles, and polythiophenes can be prepared for use in OLED, PLED, photovoltaic, transistor, antistatic coatings, and sensor applications.

Abstract: Regioregular poly(3-alkylthiophenes) and other polythiophenes can be prepared by living polymerization which have good solubility, processability and environmental stability. The polymerization method can afford regioregular poly(3-alkylthiophenes) in high yields. Kinetic study of polymerization revealed the living character of this process. The molecular weight of poly(3-alkylthiophenes) is a function of the molar ratio of the monomer to nickel initiator, and conducting polymers with relatively narrow molecular weight distribution (PDI<1.5) are now readily available. Sequential monomer addition resulted in new block copolymers containing different poly(3-alkylthiophene) segments, which further confirms the “livingness” of this system. Other synthetic methods can be used as well to conduct living polymerization. Blends and electronic devices can be prepared.

Abstract: Metal complexing agents are used to purify polymers including conducting polymers to provide very low metal content. The process comprises precipitating the polymer in solution into a solvent system comprising the metal complexing agent. Very low levels including undetectable levels of metals such as nickel and magnesium can be achieved. High purity polymers are used in electronics and photovoltaic applications.

Abstract: Regioregular poly(3-alkylthiophenes) and other polythiophenes can be prepared by living polymerization which have good solubility, processability and environmental stability. The polymerization method can afford regioregular poly(3-alkylthiophenes) in high yields. Kinetic study of polymerization revealed the living character of this process. The molecular weight of poly(3-alkylthiophenes) is a function of the molar ratio of the monomer to nickel initiator, and conducting polymers with relatively narrow molecular weight distribution (PDI<1.5) are now readily available. Sequential monomer addition resulted in new block copolymers containing different poly(3-alkylthiophene) segments, which further confirms the “livingness” of this system. Other synthetic methods can be used as well to conduct living polymerization. Blends and electronic devices can be prepared.

Abstract: Electrically conductive polymers including block copolymers, polythiophene copolymers, and regioregular polythiophene copolymers, prepared by controlled radical polymerization including RAFT and NMP polymerization methods. Polymers having low metal content can be prepared. Method of synthesizing polythiophene polymers and copolymers using RAFT and NMP polymerization are also provided. Regioregular polythiophenes are preferred. Blends with polythiophenes and non-conducting polymers can be prepared. Applications include PLEDs, sensors, and optoelectronics.

Abstract: Regioregular poly(3-alkylthiophenes) and other polythiophenes can be prepared by living polymerization which have good solubility, processability and environmental stability. The polymerization method can afford regioregular poly(3-alkylthiophenes) in high yields. Kinetic study of polymerization revealed the living character of this process. The molecular weight of poly(3-alkylthiophenes) is a function of the molar ratio of the monomer to nickel initiator, and conducting polymers with relatively narrow molecular weight distribution (PDI<1.5) are now readily available. Sequential monomer addition resulted in new block copolymers containing different poly(3-alkylthiophene) segments, which further confirms the “livingness” of this system. Other synthetic methods can be used as well to conduct living polymerization. Blends and electronic devices can be prepared.

Abstract: Universal Grignard Metathesis (GRIM) reactions which provide access to conjugated polymers by GRIM methods. A method comprising: providing an unsaturated ring compound comprising at least two halogen ring substituents, providing an organomagnesium reagent comprising an organomagnesium component and a metal activation agent, combining the unsaturated ring compound with the reagent to form a second compound by metal-halogen exchange, wherein the metal activation agent activates the metal-halogen exchange, coupling the second compound to itself in an oligomerization or polymerization reaction. Metal activation agent can be lithium chloride. The process is commercially attractive and can be executed in good yields. Polyfluorenes, polypyrroles, and polythiophenes can be prepared for use in OLED, PLED, photovoltaic, transistor, antistatic coatings, and sensor applications.

Abstract: Metal complexing agents are used to purify polymers including conducting polymers to provide very low metal content. The process comprises precipitating the polymer in solution into a solvent system comprising the metal complexing agent. Very low levels including undetectable levels of metals such as nickel and magnesium can be achieved. High purity polymers are used in electronics and photovoltaic applications.