Block copolymers with bipyridine containing segments: Synthesis and self-organization by Cu(I) complexation

The synthesis and properties of segmented ABA triblock and (AB)n multiblock copolymer systems with 6,6′‐disubstituted 2,2′‐bipyridine (bpy) building blocks B and poly(oxytetramethylene) soft segments A are described. The access to the disubstituted bipyridines in large scale quantities was achieved by modification of conventional synthetic routes. In the presence of copper(I) ions these polymers formed mononuclear [Cu(I)(bpy)2] complexes in solution through self‐assembly. The complexed copolymers were microphase separated systems in bulk with nano to mesoscopic superstructures consisting of copper‐bpy complex aggregates in a polyether matrix. The thermal, mechanical and elastomer properties of the block copolymers varied with composition.