Caterpillar-shaped polysilsesquioxanes

Abstract

The preparation of linear polysilsesquioxanes having Si–OH side groups is not trivial, because direct condensation of multifunctional silanol derivatives would lead to branched or crosslinked polymers. We have successfully prepared an unsymmetrical double-decker silsesquioxane with a silyl hydride function at one end and two silanol groups at the other. Linear POSS polymers having Si–OH side groups are obtained selectively in good yields. The properties and potential applications are briefly presented.