Grafted supports in solid-phase synthesis

Solid-phase synthesis is greatly dependent on the solid phase. We are interested in the development of a 'pellicular' type of solid support where a more mobile polymer is grafted to rigid plastics. Compared to low cross-linked microporous beads that dominate the field, this approach allows great flexibility of design, as plastics are available as sheets, films, or threads, or can be molded into any shape, as required. Many different polymers or copolymers can be grafted onto any particular shape to give a wide choice of options in the physicochemical characteristics of the actual solid support. As an example of such a solid support, we report on polystyrene-grafted polypropylene in a particular shape that we have called 'Lanterns'. Its synthesis characteristics are compared to the commonly available low cross-linked polystyrene resins. As well, the handling advantages of these types of supports in multiple synthesis are highlighted.