Photocontrolled RAFT Polymerization for the Preparation of Catechol-Functionalized Surfaces

Abstract

In nature, there are numerous compounds bearing catechol groups that demonstrate various useful properties, such as adhesion and antioxidant capacity. This inspired us to apply catechol functional group-containing polymers on a surface for adhesive properties. Herein, we report the preparation of catechol-functionalized polymeric surfaces by photo-induced electron transfer-reversible addition-fragmentation chain transfer (PET-RAFT) polymerization using a “grafting-from” approach using surface anchored RAFT agents. The polymerization of tert-butoxycarbonyl (Boc)-protected vinyl catechol, derived from naturally abundant caffeic acid, was investigated under visible light irradiation, which showed good control over molecular weights especially under green light irradiation. The catechol-bearing polymeric surfaces were readily obtained after concise thermal deprotection, which was revealed by the changes in the surface properties evaluated by contact angles. This study proposes a straightforward route to catechol-modified surface using functional and sustainable materials in coating applications.