Anthracene-Functionalized Polystyrene Random Copolymers:  Effects of Side-Chain Modification on Polymer Structure and Behavior

Copolymers consisting of styrene and 4-chloromethylstyrene (CMS) were functionalized via reaction with 9-anthracenecarboxylic acid, providing the corresponding esters. Increasing degrees of functionalization were found to increase the glass transition temperature, influence chain packing density, and induce microphase separation in block copolymer structures. The approach demonstrated in this study facilitates the investigation of the relationship between structure of side-chain groups and polymer properties, providing a general approach for the study of the effect of chemical functionality on material properties of polymers.