Selective and mild oxyfunctionalization of model polyolefins

The direct oxyfunctionalization of a model polyolefin, polyethylene-alt-propylene (PEP), was achieved utilizing a straightforward, mild process. In the presence of a manganese complex, manganese meso-tetra-2,6-dichlorophenylporphyrin acetate (Mn(TDCPP)OAc), imidazole, a phase transfer agent, and potassium peroxymonosulfate (Oxone), PEP was functionalized under ambient conditions without chain degradation. The primary oxidation products contained tertiary alcohols and ketones based on IR, ¹H NMR, ¹³C NMR, and DEPT ¹³C NMR spectroscopy of the oxyfunctionalized products. The oxyfunctionalization of squalane, a small molecule, structural analogue of PEP, was also demonstrated. Spectroscopic analyses of the main products from the squalane oxidation were nearly identical with the functional groups identified in the PEP oxidation products. The degree of functionalization was modulated by changing the relative concentration of the oxidant, Oxone. The degree of functionalization and the thermal properties are reported for these new polymeric materials.