Automated RAFT polymerization using batch, increment, and continuous addition modes to enhance properties of fluorescent polymers

Abstract

Abstract We report an automated RAFT copolymerization strategy using a Chemspeed robotic platform capable of executing batch, incremental, and continuous monomer addition workflows under inert conditions. Copolymerizations of oligo(ethylene glycol) acrylate with fluorescein o -acrylate were performed in different solvents with reaction kinetics monitored via time-resolved 1 H NMR spectroscopy. Continuous addition reactions conducted at rates from 0.3 to 1.0 mL/hr enabled compositional tuning and control over monomer sequence. This automated workflow has a potential to provide a high-throughput platform for polymer design, kinetic profiling, and material property optimization with minimal manual intervention. Graphical abstract SYNOPSIS TOC. An automated Chemspeed workflow enables time-resolved RAFT polymerizations with batch, incremental, and continuous comonomer feeding under inert conditions. Solvent effects on monomer solubility and kinetic reproducibility were systematically evaluated, enabling tunable, scalable synthesis of functional copolymer