Carbene-Mediated Polymer Modification Using Diazo Compounds under Photo or Thermal Activation Conditions

Based on the characteristics of commodity polymers in large quantities and low costs, modification of existing commodity polymers emerges as the most effective approach for exploring novel materials. Nevertheless, conventional modification methods typically involve high-energy processes (e.g., high temperature, high-energy radiation), which may lead to irreversible detrimental effects on the polymers, contradicting the desired performance enhancement through modification. In this work, we propose a carbene-mediated postpolymerization modification (PPM) strategy utilizing diazo compounds. Under photochemical or thermal activation conditions, insertion of the C–H bond can be achieved without compromising the performance of polymers. These diazo compounds can be easily synthesized in just two steps and applied to all C–H-containing polymers. This practical and effective modification strategy offers new opportunities and possibilities for enhancing the value and expanding the applications of polymers.