A simple method to convert atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) initiators into reversible addition fragmentation chain-transfer (RAFT) mediators

A simple method to convert atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) initiators into reversible addition fragmentation chain-transfer (RAFT) mediators is reported. Poly(methylmethacrylate) (PMMA), poly(N,N-dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate) (PDMAEMA) and poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) ATRP initiators were converted into their corresponding RAFT analogues using modified ATRP conditions for polymer chain activation in presence of bis(thiobenzoyl) disulphide.