The Research group of Prof. Abhijit Patra, Department of Chemistry, developed a range of solution-processable cross-linked porous organic polymers for task-specific applications. This account article explores the design strategies and functional applications of solution-processable cross-linked porous organic polymers (SCPOPs). Traditional porous organic polymers (POPs) often face solubility challenges due to their highly cross-linked and rigid structures, limiting their practical applications. To address this, our research focuses on fine-tuning noncovalent interactions within the polymer network, achieving a balance between porosity and solubility to enable solution processing. A key strategy involves the incorporation of long alkyl chains, which help mitigate strong ?–? stacking interactions and excessive cross-linking, thereby enhancing solubility. Additionally, molecular weight restriction approaches, such as hyperbranching and confined polymer growth strategy, further improve solubility by controlling polymer chain propagation. Maintaining a balance between flexibility and rigidity in the polymer backbone ensures processability without compromising porosity. Furthermore, miniemulsion polymerization offers a method for fabricating stable dispersions of porous polymer nanoparticles, expanding their potential applications. The versatility of SCPOPs is demonstrated in fluorescence-based sensing, white-light generation, and photocatalytic applications, including biphasic and dip-catalysis. More details at https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/accountsmr.4c00197.
