A broadly applicable cross-linker for aliphatic polymers containing C–H bonds

Cross-linking a range of alkyl polymers Some alkyl polymers, such as polyethylene, can be cross-linked by using peroxides or high-energy radiation or through the addition of a radical forming agent. Others, like polypropylene, are likely to undergo chain scission, and this process tends to be uncontrolled in the distribution of the cross-links. Lepageet al. developed a widely applicable approach usingbis -diazirine molecules as cross-linking agents (see the Perspective by de Zwartet al. ). These molecules can be thermally or photochemically activated to form carbenes that readily insert into the polymer carbon-hydrogen bonds, thus leading to cross-linking. Thebis -diazirine is nonexplosive, nonvolatile, and easily activated at relatively mild temperatures and thus could be used to fine-tune the properties of existing polymers through small chemical modifications.Science , this issue p.875 ; see also p.800