The objectives of this research are to explore the design, synthesis, and properties of dendritic molecules as well as hybrid polymer structures containing both linear and globular fragments. Main targets include the preparation of regular dendritic molecules with functionalized chain-ends, hyper-branched polymers prepared in a one-step polycondensation reaction, and hybrid linear-globular copolymers in which the dendritic (globular) fragment will contribute to modify drastically the properties of the linear polymer fragment. In order to prepare regular, size monodisperse dendritic structures, both stepwise and accelerated approaches involving new monomers will be used. The chemical modification of functionalities located at the chain ends or within the inner layers of the dendritic molecules will be used for a number of purposes such as the creation of novel type of micellar structures. These micellar structures are constituted of single molecules in which a hydrophobic outer layer surrounds inner hydrophilic layers (reverse micelle) or vice-versa (normal micelle). The unique control over architecture afforded by the convergent method of synthesis of dendritic molecules will be used to create unusual polymer topologies. The study of structure-properties relationships for these molecules will contribute to the advancement of knowledge may provide novel solutions to current technological problems. This research is directed toward the production of a new form of matter: polymers with a globular shape that cannot be made by any other known method. These globular polymers may be uniquely engineered for applications in a broad array of emerging advanced technologies such as molecular electronics, the design of microreactors that will allow more efficient chemical processes to be carried out with significant reduction in environmental problems, or the elimination of highly toxic pollutants from water.
