Novel perfluoropolyalkylethers monomers: synthesis and photo-induced cationic polymerization

Several difunctional oligomers were synthesized by functionalizing perfluoropolyalkylether (PFPAE) chains with different vinyl ethers and epoxides end-groups. Due to their innate synthetic challenges and demanding purification protocols, the PFPAE derivatives were obtained in low yield and with an average functionality lower than 2. However, the functionalized PFPAE oligomers were successful in being used in photo-induced cationic polymerization processes, obtaining transparent and soft films. The influences of the fluorinated chains, and various end-groups on the photopolymerization process were investigated, as well their chemical stability, thermal degradation, and surface properties.