Synthesis of polyfluorene derivatives through polymer reaction

A polyfluorene derivative with ester functional groups was synthesized with a high molecular weight and good solubility in common organic solvents through the Suzuki reaction. Efficient blue light emission and good electrochemical properties were demonstrated for this polymer with a decomposition temperature of 331 °C and a glass transition temperature of 111 °C. Due to the ester functional groups, the polymer could be further modified through polymer reactions. Hydrolysis of the polymer afforded a water-soluble carbonate functional polyfluorene derivative. While it underwent a reduction, a new polyfluorene derivative with hydroxy functional groups was obtained. Thermal and optical properties of the derivatives were also studied.